NACFE Releases Updated Idle Reduction Report

From Executive Director Mike Roeth

We’ve released a new report on idle reduction, The Idle-Reduction Playbook: Operational Strategies for Modern Trucking Fleets. This is the second update to the initial idle reduction Confidence Report published by NACFE in 2014.

Idle-reduction technology is constantly evolving, and we felt there were enough changes in the technology to warrant a report update since fuel represents a significant portion of a fleet’s operating expenses. In addition, fleets are paying attention to driver comfort, safety and convenience during their mandated breaks and are looking for ways to provide driver comfort and convenience without having to idle the truck’s main engine.

The report looks at the reasons trucks idle and provides insight into a variety of idle-reduction technologies that are currently available.

It also includes best practices and recommendations for managing idle time:

• Establishing an idle-reduction policy,
• Using engine parameters aggressively,
• Training and incentivizing drivers,
• Providing alternatives for driver comfort during downtime,
• Monitoring and reporting idle percentages,
• Investing in appropriate idle-reduction equipment,
• Combining complementary idle-reduction technologies,
• Maintaining all idle-reduction devices, and
• Monitoring idle-reduction efforts and adjusting as needed.

We found that there is a wide array of solutions and fleets should consider using a combination of solutions that addresses heating, cooling, and power needs. Economic payback for these technologies is generally favorable, especially as fuel prices rise and carbon-related costs become more common. Remember that driver comfort and training are pivotal so get buy-in from your drivers.

We believe that continued innovation will make idle reduction even easier and more effective in the near future and will likely be tied to the broader electrification trend.

Ultimately a holistic approach to deploying idle reduction strategies makes sense. We found that the most effective programs usually combine operational policies, driver engagement, and technology.