LONDON—A recent survey undertaken by Fusion Research reported that 51 percent of fleets questioned had improved their fuel efficiency in 2013 over previous years.
The study was part of the Texaco Truck Research Report, supported by Chevron Lubricants and Continental Tyres, and was presented during the latter's media briefing last week.
As part of the research of more than 500 operators across the United Kingdom, respondents were asked specifically how they felt tires and tire pressure monitoring systems affected their fuel efficiency.
While 42 percent of respondents stated they regularly monitor their tire pressures, this is a relatively low number when factored against a previous question in which 98 percent of those surveyed indicated they were aware of the impact tire pressure can have on a fleet's fuel consumption.
“It's good news that the industry understands the importance of consistently monitoring tire pressure,” said Arthur Gregg, commercial sales and marketing director at Continental Tires. “Regular checks ensure that should a problem with the tire occur, it is noticed and can be fixed promptly, avoiding any increase in fuel consumption, damage to the tire or costly delays.”
Studies carried out by Continental have shown that more than 90 percent of all tire failures are preceded by slow leaks, causing gradual loss of tire pressure.