SAN DIEGO – Findings from a recent Waste-Hauling Fleet Fuel Efficiency Study reveal that waste-hauling fleets can reduce fuel consumption on average as much as 13.8%, saving more than $2,600 per vehicle annually, by engaging in fuel-efficient, eco-driving best practices. SmartDrive Systems, a provider of driving intelligence solutions that improve safety, reduce collisions, and improve fuel efficiency, announced the survey results.

“Our study documented a significant opportunity to increase fuel efficiency through softer driving,” said Steve Mitgang, CEO, SmartDrive. “The study also shows that training and real-time in-cab feedback combine to dramatically lower the incidence of wasteful maneuvers.”

The study evaluated 193 waste-hauling trucks and drivers in multiple U.S. locations to assess the effect of driving performance on fuel consumption and the impact of eco-driving training and in-vehicle instant feedback on improving fuel economy. SmartDrive sensors and recorders collected data on drivers’ performance, which was analyzed in order to provide scorecards to drivers. After the control period and training, instant feedback on driving maneuvers and idling gave drivers the ability to adjust driving performance as it occurred. Post-training performance showed substantial reductions in the number and severity of hard accelerations, hard braking, and hard turns.

“Within two months, the top 25% of drivers improved their fuel economy from 2.52 MPG to 2.87 MPG, or 13.8%,” Mitgang said.

Download a copy of the SmartDrive Waste-Hauling Fleet Fuel Efficiency Study here.