Tallying up the cost of truck ownership
The European Commission is expected to set out its plans for the implementation of Euro 7 standards this year. For manufacturers, that means additional research and development to meet the heightened requirements. For operators, it’ll mean increased pressure to upgrade their fleets into the cleanest, most efficient vehicles.
New trucks now also have the added complication of hitting the thresholds set out within the European Commission’s new Vehicle Energy Consumption Calculation Tool (VECTO). While not directly affecting truck owners themselves, the cost of developing trucks that comply with the strict restrictions will inevitably be reflected on the showroom floor.
While the UK is beginning to embrace low emissions zones outside of London, the concept has been widely implemented across Europe for a number of years. Certain classes of vehicle, and almost always trucks, are restricted from entering certain conurbations without paying a substantial daily fee.
Though there’s little operators can do to mitigate against policy driven TCO rises, there are several simple but effective measures that can be taken to cut costs.
Preparing for your journey
For a haulier, time really is money. Before hitting the road, make sure that journeys are planned out. It’s not always as simple as turning on the satnav, especially during peak times or in adverse weather conditions. There’s no point wasting time and fuel sitting in roadworks when a slightly longer route might cut the journey time. Conversely, evaluate whether it’s worth taking that shortcut if the driver is going to use excess fuel in town or city traffic. Truck-specific navigation tools are especially important to allow for the right route planning for the vehicle.
When planning, it’s also worth considering your strategy for filling up with fuel. If your drivers are using a fuel card, make sure you’re registered to a scheme that allows them to shop around for the best prices. The last thing you want is for them to be low on fuel with limited opportunity to top-up. It’s also worth scheduling in a fuel stop as part of the journey plan to prevent this becoming a problem.
On the road
Considered, economical driving is key to boosting efficiency and minimising wear and tear on your fleet. Ensure drivers are always aware of their surroundings and are prepared to anticipate the actions of other road users. Unnecessary braking and frequent standing starts eat away at fuel consumption and put extra strain on your trucks components.
Weight and aerodynamics are major factors when it comes to efficient driving. While unnecessary weight should be shed, maximising payload is critical to maximising overall efficiency. Mileage accumulated without a full load increases costs.
In the workshop
By giving your fleet the care and attention it needs in the workshop, you’ll be helping to reduce the cost of repairs and sudden failures that could take your truck off the road. Frequent checks of vehicle tyres will help to keep them turning for longer, while the careful selection of oils and lubricants can better optimise engine performance.
The Texaco Delo ADF 600 range of premium heavy duty engine oils are the perfect partner for hardworking commercial vehicle fleets. Delo 600 ADF is specially formulated to help provide protection to both the engine and aftertreatment system. Fleets using Texaco Delo 600 ADF can reduce their overall fuel costs by up to 3% and can extend the service life of a truck’s Diesel Particulate Filter by up to 2.5 times, thanks to Texaco’s patented OMNIMAX technology which helps mitigate against clogging.
While there’s little that can be done about the increasing costs brought about by legislation, it’s clear to see how comparatively small changes can help to save on your costs. Why not give it a go and see what you can save.
