5 Ways Fleets Use Tech Every Day to be More Sustainable

Sustainability is trending – and it’s not just a buzz word that will eventually fade away. Prompted by looming regulatory changes and evolving consumer expectations, industries across the board are getting more serious about sustainability.

That includes the transportation sector, which is the largest contributor of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the United States

For an industry already awash with rules and regulations, the drive toward sustainability can seem like just another obstacle for motor carriers to navigate as they continue the crucial work of keeping commerce moving.

The good news is that sustainability efforts and running a profitable business can go hand-in-hand. In fact, many technology-supported sustainability measures can also help carriers reduce costs and increase efficiency, boosting their bottom line.

Here are 5 ways that carriers are using fleet management technology to be more sustainable (and one way that EROAD is innovating to help you prepare for a more sustainable future).

1. Reduce idling

Not only does excessive idling waste fuel and cause damage to engine components, it’s also a huge contributor to air pollution. That’s why smart carriers like you leverage telematics data to track idle times and locations, and then use their findings to curb excessive idling. It’s a win-win for both the environment and your bottom line.

2. Eliminate speeding

Speeding kills fuel economy and results in more air pollutants, as does harsh acceleration. Automatic alerts about undesirable driver behaviors, along with historical driver behavior data, from fleet management technology gives you the information you need for effective coaching to correct bad behavior, cut costs and reduce your carbon footprint. 

3. Precise tire inflation

Underinflated tires are also an enemy of fuel economy – not to mention that underinflation causes premature tire wear, resulting in the need for more frequent tire replacement and raising the potential for tire-related breakdowns and accidents. Carriers use tire pressure sensors to stay ahead of underinflation issues, increasing tire life, reducing fuel costs and protecting drivers and assets.

4. Manage maintenance

Well-maintained engines typically use less fuel. On the other hand, neglected engines may burn more fuel and experience poorer performance, which could lead to increased GHG emissions, along with the need for costly major repair. Telematics can help you manage preventative maintenance, alert you to fault codes early and facilitate easy pre- and post-trip inspections, lowering costs and supporting sustainability.

5. Optimize routes

Carriers use telematics to reduce miles traveled – including wasted deadhead miles – and cut fuel usage by identifying the most efficient, truck-friendly routes. Improved routing can also cut down on time spent idling on congested roads and highways. The result: reduced fuel costs and fewer GHG emissions.

EROAD’s EV-ready ELD

A shift toward electric vehicles is underway. More EV options are becoming available for commercial fleets. Plans are in the works to expand charging infrastructure. And government incentives and goals to reduce emissions are encouraging some businesses to make the change. EROAD is closely following these changes through the development of an EV-ready electronic logging device to help carriers ensure compliance in a new electric landscape. Wherever you are in your sustainability journey, EROAD your partner for the solutions you need to ensure compliance, transform your operations and reduce your carbon footprint today and into the future.