Analysis of Technology Options to Reduce the Fuel Consumption of Idling Trucks

Technical Report · Thu Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 2000

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/771201· OSTI ID:771201

Stodolsky, F; Gaines, L; Vyas, A

Long-haul trucks idling overnight consume more than 838 million gallons (20 million barrels) of fuel annually. Idling also emits pollutants. Truck drivers idle their engines primarily to (1) heat or cool the cab and/or sleeper, (2) keep the fuel warm in winter, and (3) keep the engine warm in the winter so that the engine is easier to start. Alternatives to overnight idling could save much of this fuel, reduce emissions, and cut operating costs. Several fuel-efficient alternatives to idling are available to provide heating and cooling: (1) direct-fired heater for cab/sleeper heating, with or without storage cooling; (2) auxiliary power units; and (3) truck stop electrification. Many of these technologies have drawbacks that limit market acceptance. Options that supply electricity are economically viable for trucks that are idled for 1,000-3,000 or more hours a year, while heater units could be used across the board. Payback times for fleets, which would receive quantity discounts on the prices, would be somewhat shorter.

• Research Organization: Argonne National Lab., IL (US)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE Office of Heavy Vehicle Technologies (OHVT) (EE-33) (US)
• DOE Contract Number: W-31109-ENG-38
• OSTI ID: 771201
• Report Number(s): ANL/ESD-43
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
AUXILIARY SYSTEMS
COOLING
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
FUEL CONSUMPTION
HEATING
OPERATING COST
OPERATION
TRUCKS