Shell and PepsiCo, along with the North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE) and Carbon War Room, are set to launch this summer a first-of-its-kind cross-country roadshow to showcase advancements in fuel efficiency.
Dubbed by the group “Run on Less,” the three-week-long event will take place in September to demonstrate how Class 8 trucks can use different technologies to achieve better fuel economy. The trucks will launch from multiple locations across the U.S. before making a final stop at the North American Commercial Vehicle (NACV) show in Atlanta.
“With new fuel economy regulations on the horizon and the need for continuing advances in fuel economy, Shell Lubricants recognizes that a holistic approach to making fuel economy gains is important,” says Annie Peter, fleet sector marketing manager, Shell Lubricants. “This includes advances in engine and drivetrain technology, the use of low viscosity lubricants, aerodynamic designs, efficient driving methods, and more.”
Mike O’Connell, senior director, supply chain, PepsiCo., adds delivering products using a more efficient fleet is a key component of achieving his company’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“Run on Less provides a unique opportunity for us to join other forward-looking fleets to demonstrate best practices when it comes to MPG, and provide real-world confidence to encourage widespread adoption of fuel-efficient technologies, ultimately improving the bottom line for North American fleets,” he says.
Run on Less will feature between six and 10 Class 8 trucks, each using different, current commercially available technologies that will haul freight around the country before heading to the Atlanta truck show.
Outfitted with everything from 6x2s and automated transmissions to aerodynamics and other technologies, the goal is to achieve a minimum of 9 MPG. Driver progress, as well as the dollars and carbon emissions saved, will be tracked and reported in real time throughout Run on Less via a live online site.
The roadshow will end at Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park Sept. 24, where the final results will be announced and the drivers will showcase their equipment, share learnings and best practices on fuel economy. Technology manufacturers will be available throughout NACV to help attending fleets accelerate adoption of technologies that make sense for their operations.
Event organizers will be accepting fleet applications to participate in the run this month. NACFE Executive Director says would-be applicants should email him at [email protected].
Model year 2015 and newer equipment is required.
