Consider Trailer Technologies and Practices to Improve Efficiency Efforts
Trailers are playing an increasingly large role in fleets’ fuel efficiency efforts.
There are several technologies and practices that fleets should consider for their trailers.
- The trailer is a prime spot for solar panels to extend battery life and to help manage the electrical load that has been added to modern trailers. Emissions regulations combined with fuel economy features and driver amenities have added 1,000 lbs. to the typical Class 8 truck.
- Lighweighting can significantly reduce tractor weight to offset the increased weight of other components or to allow more payload to be caried increasing the vehicles fright efficiency.
- Lift axles on trailers can help manage light loads, empty back hauls or diminishing load delivery applications.
- The use of double or triple trailers can allow for more payload to be moved per gallon of fuel consumed. A dolly and appropriate electrical and air equipment are required to attach one trailer to another.
- Powered axles provide regenerative braking which can not only save on brake wear, the energy can be captured and used in situations where additional power is beneficial such as vehicle launch or steep/lengthy inclines to decrease fuel consumption.
