The Economics of Better Fuel Economy for Owner-Operators

The owner-operator, like all motor carriers, is caught in a financial squeeze in this era of rising prices. By careful driving, modification of vehicles in use and spec'ing of new vehicles he can cut down on his fuel costs without cutting down on his quality of service and at the same time he can help conserve the nation's dwindling petroleum resources. But uninformed actions can be counterproductive. Some of the simpler methods of cutting fuel consumption are discussed. In addition, logical guidelines for decision-making on the use of various concepts and devices and standardized test procedures, being developed by the SAE, are discussed.