How to reduce the fuel bill for your fleet of commercial vehicles?
How to reduce the fuel bill for your fleet of commercial vehicles?
Fuel consumption is the most important cost any owner of a fleet of commercial vehicles has. Generally, half of the energy that fuel produces for a vehicle is lost in the form of heat. Apart from this, approximately 15% of the energy is lost because of friction between the engine parts. Thus, only approximately 35 % is left of the energy made by fuel to put the vehicle in motion.
Even though the effects of friction cannot be completely removed, there are ways to reduce its negative effects on fuel cosumtion. One of the best ways is using appropriate lubricants that offer the necessary protection for components no matter the driving conditions.
The viscosity degree and its influence on fuel consumption
The degree of viscosity for lubricants is the main factor that influences friction and the effects it has on fuel consumption and on engine wear: the better the components are lubricated, the less energy gets lost during their friction.
Viscosity is pretty instable and can vary according to temperature. Nevertheless, a lubricant with an optimal viscosity leads to it being lean enough at engine startup that it correctly lubricates the engine components. Also, at high temperatures, the lubricant must be thick enough that it ensures component lubrication at normal parameters.
How to save fuel by using a lubricant with the appropriate viscosity?
Controlling the viscosity of the lubricant you use for your commercial vehicle fleet is the most important parameter you should keep in mind in order to be able to reduce the monthly fuel bill. By maintaining an optimal viscosity, no matter the operatinig conditions, you are contributing to a decrease in the loss of energy caused by friction.
According to tests ran by Star Lubricants in cooperation with Exxon Mobil, maintaining an optimal lubricant viscosity leads to a possible fuel economy of up to 5% during a single interval of oil change.
Even though fuel saving is a main concern regarding cost cutting for a commercial vehicle fleet, it is equally important to choose a lubricant that can offer excellent engine protection on a long term. In this respect, the new Mobil Delvac 1 LE 5W-30 formula destined for commercial vehicles is a good choice to increase performance on a long term for your fleet.