With fuel prices continuing to fluctuate and the gap between petrol and diesel widening, managing fuel efficiency has become a growing concern for fleet operators across the UK. Against this backdrop, the pressure to balance operational efficiency with rising costs has never been greater.
That’s why we spoke with our Chief Engineering Officer, Dave Hill, who shared practical strategies to help fleets improve miles per gallon (MPG) and operate more efficiently. Here are his top eight recommendations:
1. Tyre Readiness
Tyres are a critical, yet often overlooked, factor in fuel efficiency. Research shows that tyres account for 20% to 30% of a vehicle’s fuel consumption and up to 24% of CO₂ emissions.
- Check pressures regularly: Under-inflated tyres create more rolling resistance, increasing fuel usage. Ensure tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.
- Choose low rolling resistance designs: Tyres with circumferential tread patterns roll more efficiently.
- Consider tyre construction: Fuel-efficient tyres typically have stiffer sidewalls, which reduce heat generation and improve performance.
2. Maintain Vehicle Health
A well-maintained vehicle runs more efficiently. Common issues such as sticking brakes, dirty oil and delayed engine servicing can all lead to increased fuel consumption.
Action point: Schedule regular vehicle servicing to keep engines running cleanly and ensure all mechanical systems are operating at peak efficiency.
3. Reduce Engine Load
Reducing unnecessary strain on the engine can improve fuel economy:
- Turn off air conditioning when it’s not needed.
- Avoid idling, especially during cold starts.
- Keep windows closed when driving at speed to reduce drag.
- Use appropriate gears and avoid over-revving.
4. Minimise Excess Weight
Every kilogram counts when it comes to MPG:
- Remove unnecessary items such as roof boxes, tools, and trailers when not in use.
- Only fill the fuel tank fully when needed for longer journeys; carrying excess fuel adds weight.
5. Plan Efficient Routes
Route optimisation is one of the simplest ways to cut fuel use:
- Work with logistics or planning teams to identify the most direct and efficient routes.
- Avoid high-traffic areas and group deliveries logically to reduce backtracking.
6. Buy Fuel Smart
Every penny matters:
- Supermarkets and local forecourts often offer better fuel prices than motorway services.
- Avoid premium fuels unless specifically required by the vehicle manufacturer; most engines perform well on standard unleaded or diesel.
- Use motorway service stations only when necessary and opt for a minimal “splash and dash” to reach a more cost-effective station.
7. Improve Driver Behaviour
Driving style has a significant impact on fuel efficiency:
- Encourage smooth acceleration and braking.
- Promote defensive driving techniques, including looking ahead and anticipating stops to allow coasting in gear.
- Monitor motorway speeds; driving at 65–70mph is generally more efficient than higher speeds.
Modern telematics systems can provide real-time driver insights, making it easier to identify training needs and areas for improvement.
8. Introduce Driver Coaching and Gamification
Encouraging behavioural change across the fleet can be enhanced through:
- Regular coaching sessions based on driver performance data.
- Friendly competition, such as MPG leaderboards, to incentivise efficiency.
- Recognising and rewarding top-performing drivers to foster engagement.
Drive Results with Telematics
At Airmax Remote, we help fleet managers take control of operational performance through advanced telematics solutions. From live vehicle tracking to driver profiling and real-time data analytics, our platform provides you with the tools to reduce fuel spend and increase fleet efficiency.
Discover how we can support your business:
Email: info@airmaxremote.com
Tel: +44 (0) 121 815 9325
