As you’ll read in this month’s Equipment report on page 18, the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) and a handful of truck OEMs, with co-funding by the U.S. Department of Energy, recently showed the results of research into tractor and trailer aerodynamics, which, they say, could save an estimated 1 billion gallons of fuel annually.

As my Brit friends would say, “Good show!”

But it’s really more of a good start.

Truck operators need to keep in mind that aerodynamics are only part of the better-mpg equation. Smart spec’ing, good driver habits and proper maintenance can help round out the picture. For example:

Spec’ing

• Spec’ing using the gear-fast, run-slow concept has been shown to improve fuel economy markedly. When the powertrain is spec’d for a high top speed, but the vehicle is limited to a lower speed, the engine runs in a more efficient, lower-rpm range.

• Spec’ing rib-tread drive-axle tires instead of lug tread, advises the Technology & Maintenance Council, can improve mpg 2 to 4 percent, while using ribs on the drive axles and shallow ribs on the trailer can brighten the picture from 6 to 14 percent.