Truck fuel consumption could be cut by one third in 10 years – research
Fuel consumption of new trucks could be reduced by 33% in the 2020–2030 timeframe if manufacturers introduce proven fuel efficiency technologies, a new independent study by Ricardo Energy & Environment, a consultancy, has found. The improvements would be cost-effective for hauliers as virtually all of the fuel savings could be achieved within a payback time of less than three years, according to the researchers.
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The study shows that nearly all of the technologies considered for the US market under America’s phase two of truck CO2 standards could be applied to EU trucks with substantial fuel savings potential.
Stef Cornelis, safer and cleaner trucks officer at Transport & Environment (T&E) said: “Fuel consumption technologies that could reduce truck CO2 emissions by 30% over 10 years are already available now but haven’t been deployed yet. That explains why truck fuel economy has stagnated for the last two decades. Europe needs CO2 standards for trucks now so as to boost competitiveness in innovation and accelerate the uptake of fuel efficiency technologies.”
European truckmakers and customers have yet to adopt many off-the-shelf solutions to improve efficiency such as aerodynamic improvements and low rolling resistance tires, the report added.
“It will take three years maximum for hauliers to make a return on their investment in almost all of these technologies. After that, they will save money with reduced fuel bills.” said Cornelis.
Even greater fuel efficiency gains than 33% are possible. According to a research by the ICCT, hybridisation of long-haul road freight could save another 4% of fuel.
Trucks represent less than 5% of all vehicles on the road in Europe but are responsible for around 30% of road transport CO2 emissions.