How to Run a Commercial Vehicle Efficiently
There are all sorts of commercial vehicles driving around on Australian roads. From minivans to flatbed trucks and from passenger coaches to agricultural vehicles, there is one thing they have in common so far as their owners are concerned: their cost effectiveness. Unlike many privately owned cars, commercial vehicle owners are looking to maximise the return on investment they have put into their vehicles. True, no-one really wants to devalue their car by driving it recklessly, but commercial vehicles require that little more care and attention to get the best value for money out of them. What should commercial vehicle owners be doing to continue driving it as efficiently as possible?
Choose the Right Tyres
Coach and truck tyres can be expensive when compared with ones for a normal car. The price goes up when more rubber is needed, often the case with larger commercial vehicles with bigger axles. Even for light vans which can use the same size of tyre as a car, more demand tends to be put on them. This is due to the greater weights they have to convey and the number of miles they cover. Opt for commercial tyres with a design offering a low rolling resistance. By doing so – and keeping the pumped up adequately – you will save in fuel in the long-term and can even reduce your business' carbon emissions into the bargain.
Maintain Wheels
Along with tyres, commercial vehicles' wheels should be looked after to help ensure that you continue to drive with the greatest fuel economy possible. Wheel nuts should always be checked within 40 miles or so of being fitted. Always use a torque bar to apply further tightening of the wheel nuts, but don't exceed the level of torque the vehicle maker recommends. Wheels nuts should also be tightened in the recommended sequence for long-lasting efficiency, too.
Be More Aerodynamic
Most commercial vehicles are not exactly shaped to be aerodynamic, but you can improve how they perform. Remember that aerodynamics are very important if you drive long distances. A cab top reflector is relatively inexpensive and is perfect for when you are towing a big load. Cab side wings are also helpful even when there is no load behind you. Trailers benefit from chassis side skirts because they prevent air from becoming trapped underneath, acting like an anchor to slow you down. Many commercial vehicles would also benefit from fitting a vortex generator or two at the rear. These clever gadgets agitate airflow so that it causes less drag as it passes over the back of the vehicle.