Fuel Efficient Driving Policy

PURPOSE

Trucking is a very complex business.  The variables just never stop mounting up; fuel price fluctuations make it very difficult to remain competitive in a very aggressive market.  Not only does fuel efficient driving directly impact our operating costs, it also greatly reduces emissions, protecting our environment for future generations.


SCOPE

All employees will:

  • Operate within the parameters of this policy as much as is in their control.
  • Find and implement areas for improvement in their daily driving practices to maximize fuel efficiency.
  • Eliminate any un-necessary idling time, in effect saving on fuel, money and emissions.  An idling truck can waste up to 2 litres of fuel/hour.  If there is no choice, choose the lowest idle speed possible.
  • Drive within the speed limit; fuel is directly proportional to the speed your truck is travelling.  A 22% reduction in fuel consumption can be achieved by simply reducing your speed by 5mph.  Speeding also has negative effects on fuel economy due to aerodynamic drag, not to mention putting extra stress on the engine and transmission.
  • Avoid un-necessary braking!  When the footbrake is used, the road speed that has been lost has to be made up by using the accelerator, thereby burning fuel.  Try coasting to a stop gradually.
  • Using the exhaust brake will contribute to smoother decreases in speed, increase the brake lining lifespan and save on fuel.
  • As you crest a steep grade, don’t mash the throttle to get back to cruise speed, use gravity instead.
  • The height of the load (on flatbed trailers) should be minimized when possible to reduce aerodynamic drag.  Varying the load on each axle can also impact fuel consumption.
  • Do not overfill the fuel tank.  Fuel expands when it is hot and its only escape is through the breather vent.
  • Underinflated tires will reduce your mpg and increase wear, causing resistance on the road and higher possibility of an accident.
  • Spend as much time as you can in top gear.  Don’t get in the habit of cruising one gear down.
  • Plan your trip ahead- avoiding hilly terrain or stop and go traffic and maximizing highway driving.

Management of KBD Transportation will:

  • Provide a safe and healthy work environment for all employees.
  • Provide necessary training should any employee not understand the parameters of this policy.
  • Ensure that employees follow company safety policies and procedures; anyone knowingly failing to comply with said safety practices will be subject to progressive discipline (Reference:  Progressive Discipline Policy), up to and including termination of employment.

DEFINITIONS

Aerodynamic
Designed to reduce air resistance, especially to increase fuel efficiency or maximum speed.