Efficiency is the name of the game when it comes to operating vehicle fleets. Fuel must be utilized efficiently to maximize the miles covered. And the vehicles themselves have to be optimally maintained, with their engines and parts lubricated, to ensure optimum performance and prevent breakdowns. Inefficiencies are costly, not just in terms of overhead but also in their impact on operations, such as when shipments get delayed due to mechanical failures. This is why Christensen’s services have proven to be invaluable to businesses seeking to optimize their operations and ensure their fleets and teams perform at the highest level.
The Need to Optimize Fuel Consumption
For fleet operations, causes of fuel wastage include accounting errors, inefficient driving, and even fuel theft.
Department of Energy data shows that, Long-haul truck idling burns up profits.
- An idling heavy-duty truck consumes 0.8 gallons of fuel per hour
- A long-haul truck can idle for about 1,800 hours per year
- That totals to about 1,500 gallons of diesel consumed
To compound matters, idling accelerates engine wear and tear and also results in increased emissions. The Department of Energy study’s findings show that idling results in the emission of around 11 million tons of carbon dioxide, 55,000 tons of nitrogen oxide and 400 tons of particulate matter annually in the United States alone.
There are several ways to remedy this. Tracking tools can provide businesses data on how much time their drivers spend idling, how much fuel their vehicles are consuming, and more. With this information, they can take the necessary corrective steps.
The Department of Energy recommends alternatives to idling heavy-duty trucks. These idling alternatives can use up to 95% less fuel, reducing fuel expenses and air pollution. Battery-powered auxiliary power units (APU), alternative-fuel APUs, and APUs equipped to plug into power pedestals for grid power may be the more efficient solution for your fleet and drivers who require power while not actively traveling or hauling.
Reduce Fuel Expenses by Applying for a Fleet Fuel Card
AmeriFuel, a division of Christensen, offers fleet fuel cards that allow fleet operators and their drivers access to time-saving solutions that increase productivity.
AmeriFuel provides access to a nationwide network of high speed, high control commercial fueling facilities. By offering the highest level of transaction control and activity analysis, employees quickly learn that this system can’t be cheated.
AmeriFuel’s fleet fuel cards grant:
- 24/7 customer service
- Access to 180,000 fueling locations
- 50,000 service centers
The system also sends detailed activity reports, ensuring fraud protection, and sending email alerts when a card has been used outside preset parameters.
Fleet fuel card accounts can be easily accessed online and integrates with ELD, telematic tracking and fleet maintenance software.
In short, AmeriFuel fuel cards can give businesses a competitive advantage. They can save time, money and give their fleet an edge.
Effective Lubricant Management Helps Vehicle Fleets
In the vehicle fleet sector, timing is critical and the slightest delay can negatively impact the bottom line. Without proper oil condition monitoring vehicles may end up being taken off the road for oil changes more often than needed and they may experience unexpected breakdowns. All these increase overall costs per mile.
We know this very well since Christensen is not just a supplier to fleets; we’re also a fleet owner. We understand that time is money. That is why our innovative suite of products and services are intentionally designed to help you get the job done quickly and efficiently – and it’s what we use for our own fleet too.
Our oil analysis service addresses these concerns and provides many benefits. Chief among them is that it can help businesses:
- Predict and prevent failures before they happen.
- Determine appropriate oil-drain intervals based on machine use and lubricant condition.
- Maximize oil-drain intervals for lower lubricant costs.
- Plan maintenance regimens to maximize the availability of fleet vehicles or machinery.
- Protect fleet/machinery investments against unexpected events such as breakdowns.
- Ensure the right lubricants have been used in equipment.
In short, this helps businesses minimize unplanned downtime, increase reliability and availability. This reduces costs, drives profit and protects businesses’ investments.
Takeaway
Christensen’s services help businesses keep their fleets and operations running smoothly. Thinking of improving your business’ fleet lubricant management practices? Interested in reducing fleet fuel expenses? Reach out to Christensen today.