Idling is a silent killer for a fleet’s budget. It wastes fuel and puts unnecessary wear on engines. In fact, an idling engine can burn up to a gallon of fuel an hour. Therefore, reducing this wasted time can lead to huge savings. Fortunately, there are many upgrades and alternatives that can help.

Technology to Stop Idling Automatically

First, consider adding technology that controls the engine for you. Automatic engine shut-down systems are a great choice. These systems will turn off the engine after it has been idling for a set period. Many can be programmed to work with specific conditions. For instance, they can be set to turn off only when the truck is in Park or when the air temperature is moderate. In addition, some systems have a “start/stop” feature. This feature automatically turns the engine on and off based on conditions like battery charge or cab temperature.

Auxiliary Power Units (APUs)

For trucks that need to provide power for long periods, an Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) is a great solution. An APU is a small, separate engine mounted on the truck. It provides power for heating, air conditioning, and electrical appliances. Because it runs on a fraction of the fuel an idling engine uses, it saves a lot of money. APUs are very popular in long-haul trucking. They also help a fleet comply with anti-idling regulations in many states.

Other Smart Upgrades

There are other useful upgrades as well. For vehicles that need to stay warm in the winter, a fuel-fired heater is a solid option. These small heaters burn a small amount of fuel to keep the cab or engine warm. They use far less fuel than the main engine. Similarly, a coolant heater can keep the engine warm to avoid “warm-up” idling. Some fleets also use battery-powered air conditioning systems. These systems run on a battery pack charged by the main engine. They provide cooling without any emissions or engine noise. Finally, truck stop electrification is an option. This is where drivers can plug their trucks into a power source at a truck stop. It provides power for all their needs without idling.

These upgrades are more than just about saving fuel. They also reduce wear and tear on your engines. This means fewer breakdowns and lower maintenance costs over time.

For more information on anti-idling technologies, visit the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center. You can also find a list of verified idle reduction technologies from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s SmartWay program.

Also read: The Power of Data & Continuous Improvement: Sustaining Fuel Efficiency in Your Light-Duty Fleet