What if hitting 10 miles per gallon in your semi-truck was not just a dream, but an achievable goal? While the average semi-truck is 6.5 to 7.5 MPG, Henry Albert, owner-operator and President of Albert Transport, has shown it’s possible to push that number much higher. And no, improving fuel efficiency isn’t just about having the latest truck model –it’s about changing how you drive.
Last week, we asked the fleet to listen to the Freight Nation Podcast featuring Henry Albert and his successful career. If you haven’t already, please take some time to listen to it as this article is based on the key insights from that podcast.
Key Takeaways: Insights from MK Driver Feedback
We asked the fleet to share their thoughts after listening to the podcast, and after reviewing your feedback, several key takeaways stood out. Here’s a summary of the main insights:
- The Mile-a-Pint Visual: Henry’s goal back in 2008 was to aim for “a mile per pint,” striving for 8 MPG. His success shows those small, consistent changes can lead to big improvements.
- Comfort vs Fuel Savings: Henry emphasizes that saving fuel often means sacrificing comfort. For years, he used heating pads and a fan rather than idling the truck overnight.
- Minimize Idle Time: Excessive idling significantly drains fuel. Henry emphasizes turning off the engine whenever possible.
- Speed Control: Avoid driving faster than needed to make appointment times. Henry pointed out, “If you’re gonna get someplace and be there for 12 hours and you only need to be there for 10 hours, why are you hurrying to get there?”
- Consider External Factors: Be aware of external factors that have an impact on fuel performance, such as the type of truck, terrain, the weight of the trailer, the type of lanes run, medical reasons, and weather.
Why Fuel Efficiency Matters:
Fuel efficiency isn’t just about cutting fuel costs. The fleet’s feedback reflected a shared understanding that when you conserve fuel, you also reduce tire wear, minimize brake maintenance, and lower overall maintenance expenses. This leads to fewer breakdowns and less downtime, ultimately boosting revenue. These profits can then be allocated to raises, bonuses, and the opportunity to invest in better equipment. Improving fuel performance benefits everyone involved.
Top Strategies for Better Fuel Performance:
Drawing on Henry’s experience and our own, how can we apply these lessons and strive for better fuel performance in our daily routines? Here are some strategies:
- Control your Speed: Drive at the posted speed limit; faster speeds encounter more air resistance, requiring the engine to work harder and compensate with more fuel. Each MPH over 60 mph equals a 1/10 decrease in MPG.
- Avoid Harsh Braking: Maintain a proper following distance of 6-7 seconds.
- Coast When Possible: Use your truck’s momentum to your advantage. Coast into stop signs, ramp speed zones, and construction areas instead of accelerating unnecessarily.
- Avoid Rapid Acceleration: Press the accelerator in a relaxed and controlled manner.
- Monitor Tire Pressure: Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check tire pressure daily.
- Minimize Idle Time: Tractors burn up to one gallon of fuel per hour while idling. Shut the truck off when possible –even if it’s for short periods.
- Track your weekly fuel economy and share lessons learned with others.
Achieving better fuel performance is more than just a lofty goal; it is achievable with the right driving habits and mindset. As Henry Albert’s experiences demonstrate, small adjustments like reducing idling, controlling speed, and improving acceleration techniques can significantly improve fuel efficiency. These changes not only help save money on fuel but also contribute to lower maintenance costs, longer truck lifespan, and fewer breakdowns.
Start today—continue to track your MPG, tweak your routine, and see the difference in your fuel efficiency. By making small changes, you’re not just saving money; you’re contributing to a more sustainable, profitable future for everyone at MK.
