Fleets’ Fuel Efficiency Rose in 2023, 2022: NACFE Study

The North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE) reports that fuel efficiency in the freight industry is improving after years of stagnation. In 2023, the average fuel economy for large carriers reached 7.77 miles per gallon (mpg), up from 7.62 mpg in 2022 and significantly higher than the 6.67 mpg average in 2013. The study, which includes 14 major fleets such as UPS, Ryder, and Schneider National, attributes this increase to improved fleet management, a shift towards newer vehicles, and a gradual recovery from pandemic-related disruptions that affected operations and increased idling times in 2020 and 2021. Several advanced technologies are being adopted, with significant growth seen in predictive cruise control, minimum-gap fifth wheel designs, and high-efficiency alternators among others. This technological adoption has increased from 17% in 2003 to 42% in 2023, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing fuel efficiency. Meanwhile, there is a notable trend toward shorter haul routes, driven by e-commerce and efforts to provide drivers with better home time. This shift, while beneficial in some respects, is resulting in reduced overall fuel efficiency as trucks spend more time on local roads that typically present higher fuel consumption characteristics. Over time, this pattern may adversely impact fleet fuel economy and could shift the market towards day cabs that are more suited for local deliveries. As an expert in transportation, I observe that while the focus on decarbonization and improving fuel economy is critical, particularly with advancements in electric and fuel cell technologies, it is essential to maintain a balance. The increase in freight demand and the move to shorter haul routes highlight the need for flexible solutions that can integrate traditional diesel efficiency improvements with emerging technologies. It's vital for fleets to address these operational shifts and invest in training and infrastructure that accommodates both types of vehicles to optimize efficiency and sustainability in the long term.