31 July 2006
Results show nearly half cutting fuel use.
Findings from a new survey of fleet managers show 48% are making significant process in improving their fuel efficiency. The new research was conducted by the Freight Best Practice Programme and involved around 100 managers, managing over 20,000 vehicles.
Unsurprisingly, a hugh majority - 90% of those polled confirmed that they want to cut fuel consumption. 44% of operators now set targets for fuel consumption. The majority managed to cut fuel use as a consequence.
Encouragingly the findings show 71% of operators are measuring their fuel use,illustrating an awareness of the issue. This shows the impetus is there to save fuel. However, the 52% who are not yet making savings could make more use of the advice and tools available to them through the Freight Best Practice programme.
At a time of rising fuel prices, managing fuel efficiency is one of the most important ways of keeping costs in check and maintaining the profitability of a freight business. Data shows that typical fuel management programmes can cut consumption by up to 5% - which equates to over a £1,000 saving per year for the typical heavy truck.
John Hix, Freight Best Practice spokesprson, said:
"The findings make interesting reading. It shows that the will is there among the nation's fleet managers to cut fuel consumption, and we welcome the signs that a significant proportion have converted that will into action. However, the figures show that some fleet managers have still to make that initial step."
"The key to a successful management plan is to measure consumption and set targets to reduce it. Without targets you have nothing to aim for. It is encouraging therefore to see a high proportion of the industry are measuring fuel use."
When it comes to making improvements to fuel efficiency, fleet managers said the number one thing they wanted to do is improve driver skills through training. The replies suggested a lack of understanding among drivers about the impact their driving style can have on fuel consumption. Congestion was also a top issue managers felt hampered attempts to improve fuel efficiency.
John Hix commented:
"The Freight Best Practice programme provides information put together with the industry for the industry. It is free and aimed at helping firms become more fuel efficient. Publications like our newly updated Fuel Management Guide give practical advice and supply case studies to show that firms are out there making significant fuel savings, with the help of new techniques and evaluation measures."
The Fuel Management Guide takes operators through the process of managing their fuel consumption step by step - from selecting Key Performance Indicators through to setting targets. It also suggests ideas such as appointing a 'Fuel Champion' - a person within a company who is appointed as the central point of contact for the project.