Top Ways to Reduce Fleet Maintenance Costs for Clean Diesel Engines
Clean diesel engine are the backbone of the majority of trucks on the road. According to data from the Diesel Technology Forum (DTF), most U.S. fleets have already reached “near-zero” emissions, thanks to trucks manufactured after 2010 that comply with EPA regulations. These trucks use advanced technologies like Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems to capture and treat Nitrous Oxide (NOx) and particulate emissions before they exit the exhaust system. As a result, diesel engine have revolutionized the industry, combining low emissions with high performance.
Fleet Dominance
DTF reports that 57% of diesel trucks in Classes 3-8 are near-zero emissions vehicles, and this number is projected to increase by 10.2% from 2021 to 2022. Many of these diesel engines incorporate advanced after-treatment systems, enhancing their fuel efficiency and overall emissions performance.
Clean diesel technology has had a significant impact on the heavy-duty trucking sector. Improvements in aerodynamics, engine oil formulations, and integrated powertrains have all contributed to more efficient diesel engine. For instance, All American Diesel and Fleets demonstrated fuel efficiency of 16 miles per gallon, showcasing the impressive performance that clean diesel technology can achieve.
The Future of Clean Diesel and Emission Regulations
The EPA is set to implement new emission regulations in 2027, further lowering NOx levels from the current limit of 0.20g/BHP/hr to 0.035g/BHP/hr—a substantial 82% reduction. This change emphasizes the trucking industry’s commitment to clean diesel engine development and sustainable practices.
Despite the push for alternative fuels, clean diesel engines dominate the market, particularly in Class 8 trucks, where 95.4% run on clean diesel, 2.1% use compressed natural gas (CNG), and 0.3% are electric. Diesel continues to be the most reliable fuel source for the transportation industry, with other alternatives still having significant hurdles to overcome, particularly in scalability and infrastructure.
Clean Diesel vs. Electric and Alternative Fuels
As of now, diesel remains the most prevalent and efficient fuel for large trucks. While electric vehicles (EVs) offer zero emissions, they make up only 0.09% of Class 3-8 trucks in operation. Allen Schaeffer, Executive Director of the DTF, noted that nearly 7 million new-technology diesel trucks are on U.S. roads, operating at near-zero emissions. He pointed out that there are 1,100 internal combustion engine trucks for every electric truck currently in service.
In states like California, which leads the way in EV adoption, clean diesel trucks outnumber electric trucks by a staggering ratio of 125 to 1. This highlights the ongoing relevance and importance of clean diesel engines, even in regions with ambitious environmental goals.
Maintaining Clean
Given the dominance of diesel engines, proper maintenance is crucial to ensuring their longevity and efficiency. All American Diesel and Fleet Services specializes in maintaining these advanced systems, helping fleets avoid costly downtime and repairs.
One common issue with clean diesel engines is the buildup of soot and debris in after-treatment systems like DPFs. When not properly maintained, these systems can become clogged, leading to frequent regeneration cycles or even system failure. At this point, fleets may face extended downtimes, higher costs, and potential damage to the engine.
To avoid these issues, it’s essential to implement a regular maintenance schedule that includes inspecting and cleaning DPFs, monitoring sensors, and addressing any performance irregularities early. We advises that if a regeneration process exceeds an hour or becomes forced, the filter may not heat up sufficiently to burn off soot, leading to blockages that require professional cleaning or replacement.
Diagnostic Tools for Clean Diesel Engine
Using advanced diagnostic tools is another key strategy for managing fleet maintenance costs. Diagnostic tools can handle tasks such as regens, resets, and pinpointing hidden issues within the entire system. These tools are invaluable for maintaining clean diesel engines in optimal condition and reducing costly downtimes.
At All American Diesel and Fleet Services, expert technicians use these diagnostic tools to ensure that all aspects of your clean diesel fleet are operating efficiently. By using cutting-edge technology and expertise, they help mitigate common after-treatment problems and extend the lifespan of your fleet.
Optimize Your Fleet Maintenance
Maintaining clean diesel engines requires specialized attention and care. However, with the right approach, it’s possible to reduce fleet maintenance costs without compromising safety or performance. All American Diesel and Fleet Services provides expert maintenance and diagnostic services that help fleets stay on the road, minimize downtime, and reduce costs.
If you’re ready to optimize the performance of your clean diesel fleet, reach out to All American Diesel and Fleet Services today. Let us help you keep your fleet running smoothly and efficiently, while staying ahead of future emissions standards. Contact us now to learn more about our comprehensive diesel maintenance solutions.