Operator`s manual

OPERATION
302
FUEL ECONOMY DRIVING
General
The absolute fuel consumption (counted in liters per 100 kilometers or
miles per US gallon) is determined by a large number of circumstances
which can be related to one of the following main areas:
앫 Build specification and equipment
앫 Service and maintenance
앫 External environment
앫 Driving habits
Due to these factors, fuel consumption can vary considerably within
what is called “normal fuel consumption.” Fuel consumption can vary
from over 24 L/100 km (10 mpg) when driving empty on a nice and dry
summer road to 67 L/100 km (3.5 mpg) while driving with maximum
permitted GVW, with vehicle and trailer, on a hilly and slushy winter
road.
Build Specification and Equipment
Whenever a vehicle is used for transportation, its build specification,
equipment and gross vehicle weight have a decisive effect on both fuel
consumption and performance. The factors which have the greatest
influence on fuel consumption are primarily: driveline combination,
height of trailer or superstructure, use of air fairings, tire type, number
of wheels, gross vehicle weight, and accessories.
Driveline Combination
Engine, transmission and final drive must be selected in such a way
that the engine can operate within the economic speed range at normal
driving speed. This range is defined as where the engine makes the
best use of the energy content of the diesel fuel.
A poorly selected rear axle ratio, which results in the engine speed
being constantly above the optimum speed, will increase fuel
consumption.
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