Effective fuel management is necessary for any fleet operation. When it comes to operating a fleet of vehicles fuel is the most important element to consider. Without fuel, vehicles do not go anywhere, deliveries do not occur and the whole business stops. In countries such as the UK, fuel prices are always changing, and businesses are encouraged to reduce their environmental impact, so they have to find new ways to manage their fuel consumption.
Why Fuel is So Important for Fleet Management
Fuel serves a major role in the overall cost of running a fleet. It is one of the huge expenses for businesses with vehicles. If fuel management is not done properly then it may result in higher costs, vehicle damage, and delays which will affect the profit and satisfaction of customers. Fleet managers are always in pressure in search of finding ways for the better management of fuel.
With the application of a good fuel management system, you can help your businesses in reducing costs, improving work efficiency, and also stay competitive in the market for long term.
Current Trends in Fuel Management
1. Rising Fuel Prices
The fact that fuel prices are unpredictable and it can go up due to number of reasons such as the global politics or even natural disasters. Fleet managers should carefully monitor the changes in fuel market to prepare for any sudden price increase.
2. Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles are becoming common in fleet businesses. In the UK, the government aims to ban the purchase of fuel and diesel cars by 2035. This results in increasing adoption of EVs. Although EVs may require some investment due to its charging mechanism, the overall operational cost and maintenance of these vehicles are cheaper. More companies use EVs because it reduces the carbon emissions.
3. Exploring Alternative Fuels
The use of alternative fuel is increasing day-by-day which include biodiesel, hydrogen or compressed natural gas. This fuel enhances operational efficiency and cut down expenses. Fleet managers must know about these alternatives and try to implement them in their business.
4. Fuel Efficiency Technology
Advancement in technology is playing a big role in the improvement of fuel efficiency. Telematics system can enable business to reduce fuel waste. It provides data on the fuel usage, route planning and driver behavior. By using this information, fleet managers can find ways to increase efficiency and help in preventing from excessive consumption of fuel.
Strategies for Better Fuel Management
Effective management of fuel involves intense observation of fuel consumption and find ways to reduce waste. The following are a few simple ideas that may help you operate fuel more efficiently:
Use Fuel Cards
Fuel cards reduce and manage the fuel expenses. Drivers can use it at specific fuel stations and fleet managers can see how much fuel is purchased and when. This makes it possible to identify issues like excessive filling or overspending. Companies like Radius offer these cards for the purpose of making purchases and monitoring the expenses in order to obtain the lowest fuel price.
Train Drivers to Save Fuel
Fuel can be saved by training the drivers to drive more efficiently. Speeding, sudden braking and even idling are bad habits that waste fuel. Praise your drivers for smooth driving and less idling. Frequent training and monitoring their driving habits would be beneficial and can ensure they follow these practices.
Keep Vehicles Well-Maintained
A well-maintained vehicle will consume less fuel. You should check and maintain your fleets regularly. Regular maintenance tasks such as tyre pressure, air filters, oil change and tunning engine increases the fuel economy. If your vehicles are in good working condition then you would prevent costly repairs.
Optimize Your Routes
You can save fuel by planning the best routes for your vehicles. Modern fleet management systems can find the shortest, direct and most efficient routes that helps in avoiding traffic and minimizing idle time. This helps in reducing wasteful trips and fuel.
Use Telematics Systems
Telematics systems collect information on how the vehicles are driven. This includes measurable values such as speed, acceleration, braking and fuel consumption. Fleet managers are able to analyze areas where fuel is wasted and correct such faults by reviewing the data. Such actions improve driver behavior and optimize routes for better efficiency
Conclusion
Proper management of fuel is essential for the smooth operation of a fleet and saves money. As the fuel prices increases the interest in electric vehicles grows. Managing fuel by the use of fuel cards, maintenance of the vehicles, and educating the drivers can reduce the fuel expenses. Technology like telematics makes it possible to monitor the amount of fuel consumed. New alternatives and electric powered vehicles will enable the companies reduce expenses, stay competitiveness and improve operation of fleets.
