Ford is facing potential fines of $1 billion accumulated between 2027 to 2032 due to stricter proposed fuel economy rules. A mandate by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) wants to raise the corporate average fuel economy standard by 2032 to reduce emissions.
Ford’s fuel dilemma
Ford says the mandate is a sign of growing pressure on vehicle manufacturers to improve fuel efficiency. It voiced concerns over the economic strain these rules would impose on industry giants, including General Motors and Stellantis.
“By NHTSA’s own analysis, Ford would likely pay $1 billion in civil penalties if NHTSA’s proposal were finalized,” the company says. “This is alarming in and of itself, and threatens substantial economic hardship for Ford.”
These developments underscore the importance of adopting fuel management strategies. The transition to electric vehicles would eventually mitigate fuel costs, but it’s wise to tame your fleet’s thirst for fuel in the meantime.
Ford’s hefty fines serve as an eye-opening warning to fleet managers, and mirrors a challenge many face daily: fuel economy. Employing the right strategies will curb escalating costs, and you can dodge a $1bn-fine by exploring fuel-saving tactics.
ALSO READ: Route optimization can solve old problems, says entrepreneur
Driver behavior
Drivers’ behavior plays a large role in managing fuel consumption and costs. Harsh braking, excessive speeding, and excessive idling are fuel-draining habits best to be avoided. Even changing gears at the right times can optimize fuel efficiency.
WATCH: Managing drivers
Moreover, drivers should be encouraged to pay attention to their driving patterns. They should inspect their vehicles regularly since tire pressure and the amount of oil used also has an impact on fuel savings. Real-time monitoring provides insight on driver behavior, which allows fleet managers to address issues as soon as they arise.
Dive into fuel data
Knowledge is power, the popular saying goes, and monitoring fuel usage data will assist in spotting areas of improvement. Incorporating fuel management software isn’t just about tracking.
It leverages technology to make informed decisions about reducing fuel expenses. This could include anything from monitoring traffic conditions and delivery volumes, to checking the weather forecast since it is more efficient to refill your fuel tank during cooler temperatures.
Efficient route planning
An ounce of planning is worth a gallon of fuel saved. Efficient route planning minimizes the distance your vehicles need to cover, which directly impacts fuel consumption. Automate these tasks and your fleet will operate on the most fuel-efficient routes daily.
Since route optimization software automatically modifies delivery routes, it reduces the amount of delays when traffic conditions change without warning, which saves on fuel. By optimizing your delivery routes with Locate2U’s multi-stop routing capability, you also reduce travel time and maintain your delivery schedule with disruption.
Adopting these measures curtails your fleet’s fuel appetite while enhancing efficiency, savings, and customer satisfaction.
ALSO READ: Route optimization: When Cloud means business
About the author
Cheryl has contributed to various international publications, with a fervor for data and technology. She explores the intersection of emerging tech trends with logistics, focusing on how digital innovations are reshaping industries on a global scale. When she's not dissecting the latest developments in AI-driven innovation and digital solutions, Cheryl can be found gaming, kickboxing, or navigating the novel niches of consumer gadgetry.
