Fuel consumption of tractor-trailer trucks as affected by speed limit and payload weight
The effect of speed limit and payload weight on fuel consumption was determined in tests of tractor-trailer rigs. Two virtually identical vehicles were used, one loaded with a 28,000 lb payload and the other carrying 42,000 lbs; each was driven over two different sets of terrain on the Massachusetts Turnpike at simulated speed limits of 50, 55, and 60 mph. Onboard observers recorded data on tank-measured fuel consumption, trip average speed, etc. An analysis of the data led to the following conclusions: (1) increased fuel consumption results from higher speed limits in the range of 50 to 60 mph; (2) terrain is an important factor in determining the effect of speed limit on fuel consumption; and (3) a payload increase from 28,000 lbs to 42,000 lbs is carried at no detectable increase in fuel consumption for the ''hilly'' route, and less than a 7% increase in fuel consumption for the route including a crossing of the Berkshire Mountains. (Summary)
- Research Organization:
- Department of Transportation, Cambridge, Mass. (USA). Transportation Systems Center; U.S. Dept. of Transportation, Transportation Systems Center, Kendall Square, Cambridge, MA 02142
- OSTI ID:
- 7180531
- Report Number(s):
- PB-248953; DOT-TSC-OST-75-3
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
298000* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Consumption & Utilization
32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
320203 -- Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization-- Transportation-- Land & Roadway
ENERGY CONSERVATION
ENERGY CONSUMPTION
FUEL CONSUMPTION
INFORMATION
REGULATIONS
TABLES
TRUCKS
VEHICLES
VELOCITY
WEIGHT