Six Ways to Save On Spiralling Diesel Prices

For the road transport industry, it has never been more expensive to fuel a truck. The cost of diesel has soared, tax credits have changed and as of writing, operators are staring down well over $2.30 per litre at the bowser in capital cities. That’s nearly 50 per cent more per litre than it was 18 months ago.

With fuel such a major expense for transport operators, even small savings – either through buying cheaper fuel or using less fuel - can have a major impact on profitability.

With this in mind, here’s six simple tips to cut fuel expenditure and boost your bottom-line.

1. Fuel Cards
2. Maintenance & Lubricants
3. Tyres
4. Premium Diesels
5. Vehicle Aerodynamics
6. Fuel Efficient Driving

1. Fuel Cards

A fuel card is a popular tool for transport operators to help maintain spending and keep track of what’s going on away from the depot.

Through a fuel card arrangement, businesses can receive the convenience of major retail fuelling stations while also receiving potential discounts on fuel.

A fuel card also streamlines your business’s fuel administration. With online access to your account, you can manage your cards, set up reporting systems, download statements and check transactions whenever you want.

And at tax time you can access a single tax invoice and statement itemising the GST payable for all your fuel purchases.

2. Maintenance & Lubricants

Having a good maintenance program to keep your vehicle running at its best is not only good for your rig but can help reduce fuel consumption.

The latest data from energy.gov.au suggests the potential for fuel savings and emissions abatement with proper maintenance may be as high as 10 per cent.

Advances in lubricant and oil technology have also been shown to improve fuel efficiency. Low-viscosity oils and lubricants (that still meet the manufacturer’s requirements) can help fuel economy by up to three per cent compared to standard offerings. Lowering the viscosity in engine oils reduces friction and is a key enabler to deliver fuel efficiency gains, as well as protecting your engine.

* It is recommended you use the correct lubricants as recommended by the engine manufacturer or equipment manufacturer.

4. Premium Diesels 

Some premium diesel products have additives in them that are designed to maintain fuel systems. These additives in particular help stop the build-up of carbon as well as reduce residual water in fuel tanks.

The efficiency claims differ from brand to brand, however, the intention of these products is to help keep the engine running at its peak performance, therefore reducing fuel consumption.

5. Vehicle Aerodynamics

Volvo Trucks says heavy vehicles overcoming air resistance can contribute to around 10 per cent of its fuel consumption, so investing in aerodynamic aids for your rig can be worth the investment.

Aerodynamic features such as air deflectors, chassis fairings and new vision systems that replace mirrors have all been found to help reduce the drag on your vehicle, therefore helping with fuel savings.

Bad news for drivers who like bling; external accessories like extra lights, bull bars, air horns and ornaments will increase fuel consumption by an average of one per cent per accessory.