Labor shortages, the rise of stringent regulations, and the ever-climbing fuel prices... Sounds like the perfect recipe for a crisis, doesn't it? That's just what trucking companies in VA have found themselves facing over the last few years. There's an argument to be made that this is why a handful of innovations are currently taking the industry by storm:
Hybridized Powertrains: Lately, huge strides have been made in the development of concepts that will eliminate what has been the biggest disadvantage of hybrid trucks: unreasonably-large batteries. This alone should be a huge enough incentive for their adoption, but there's more. Hybridizing a powertrain (i. E integrating electrical and conventional systems) allows the practical use of 6X2 axles, as well as smaller engines and transmissions.
Platooning: This involves linking up a handful of trucks to form a travelling platoon, and is closely intertwined with autonomous vehicle technology. The lead truck then establishes a defined pattern for the rest of the pack to follow while in motion, albeit with human drivers onboard. Platooning is thought to be a sustainable solution for traffic congestion and safety, particularly when implemented on an open model.
Embedded Telematics: As a concept that amalgamates GPS tracking and communication functions, telematics offers plenty of opportunities to improve the way fleets are managed. For instance, data can be extracted from each vehicle's control module and analyzed to improve its operational cycle. The technology can also be used to influence driver behavior in a way that supports the company's initiatives.
With so many innovations on the horizon, it's clear that the trucking sector is ripe for for a green transformation. It'll take bit of time before emerging technologies are adopted industry-wide, not least because most of them aren't ready for commercial deployment as yet. On that note, it's worth taking a look at some of the steps you can take to enhance efficiency in the meantime:
Prioritize Quality: Behind every profitable venture is a well-cultivated staff community, and your company is no exception. So do whatever's necessary to attract and retain the highest quality drivers available. The long-term benefits will more than make up for the hefty investment.
Remember Those Check-ups: It's very important that you keep up with all elements of your maintenance program. If that seems obvious, so should the need to have scheduling features in your fleet management software. This will eliminate the risk of forgetting when tasks fall due.
Maintain Appropriate Tire Pressures: This is arguably the most obvious yet overlooked aspect of fleet maintenance. As such, it's worth spending some time enlightening your staff on the importance of proper inflation and frequent tire checkups. You'll be surprised by how big a performance gain you'll reap thereafter.
There's no denying that technology has become a handy tool for the modern trucker. It's in your best interest to get acquainted with the solutions currently available and see how you can take advantage of them. Of course, that shouldn't make you ditch the good old techniques for getting the most out of your fleet.
Hybridized Powertrains: Lately, huge strides have been made in the development of concepts that will eliminate what has been the biggest disadvantage of hybrid trucks: unreasonably-large batteries. This alone should be a huge enough incentive for their adoption, but there's more. Hybridizing a powertrain (i. E integrating electrical and conventional systems) allows the practical use of 6X2 axles, as well as smaller engines and transmissions.
Platooning: This involves linking up a handful of trucks to form a travelling platoon, and is closely intertwined with autonomous vehicle technology. The lead truck then establishes a defined pattern for the rest of the pack to follow while in motion, albeit with human drivers onboard. Platooning is thought to be a sustainable solution for traffic congestion and safety, particularly when implemented on an open model.
Embedded Telematics: As a concept that amalgamates GPS tracking and communication functions, telematics offers plenty of opportunities to improve the way fleets are managed. For instance, data can be extracted from each vehicle's control module and analyzed to improve its operational cycle. The technology can also be used to influence driver behavior in a way that supports the company's initiatives.
With so many innovations on the horizon, it's clear that the trucking sector is ripe for for a green transformation. It'll take bit of time before emerging technologies are adopted industry-wide, not least because most of them aren't ready for commercial deployment as yet. On that note, it's worth taking a look at some of the steps you can take to enhance efficiency in the meantime:
Prioritize Quality: Behind every profitable venture is a well-cultivated staff community, and your company is no exception. So do whatever's necessary to attract and retain the highest quality drivers available. The long-term benefits will more than make up for the hefty investment.
Remember Those Check-ups: It's very important that you keep up with all elements of your maintenance program. If that seems obvious, so should the need to have scheduling features in your fleet management software. This will eliminate the risk of forgetting when tasks fall due.
Maintain Appropriate Tire Pressures: This is arguably the most obvious yet overlooked aspect of fleet maintenance. As such, it's worth spending some time enlightening your staff on the importance of proper inflation and frequent tire checkups. You'll be surprised by how big a performance gain you'll reap thereafter.
There's no denying that technology has become a handy tool for the modern trucker. It's in your best interest to get acquainted with the solutions currently available and see how you can take advantage of them. Of course, that shouldn't make you ditch the good old techniques for getting the most out of your fleet.
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