192 fuel economy driving – Volvo VHD User Manual
Page 198
192
Fuel Economy Driving
Gross Vehicle Weight
The gross vehicle weight of a vehicle com-
bination has a large impact on the rolling
resistance.
Accessories
As a rule, accessories such as roof rack, ad-
vertising signs, bug screens, exposed air
horns, etc., have a negative effect on fuel
consumption.
Service and Maintenance
A modern heavy-duty vehicle requires reg-
ular and preventive maintenance to ensure
that all its components function as they
should. Use the recommended preventive
maintenance (PM) program that Volvo
Trucks North America, Inc. has developed
for the vehicles. This ensures optimal en-
ergy efficiency from all components that
are important to fuel consumption.
Tires
If the tire pressure is too low, the rolling
resistance increases and, thereby, increases
the fuel consumption. The overall economy
is also affected as tire wear increases
considerably.
Brakes
Dragging brakes increase fuel consumption.
They should be checked regularly. It is im-
portant that the release action of the air
valves is fast and that the moving parts of
the wheel brakes are checked for good ad-
justment and operation.