NACFE tracks fleet activities for Run on Less Messy Middle

The future of transportation is rapidly evolving, especially within the trucking industry. With increasing environmental concerns and the need for efficiency, fleets are exploring various fuel technologies. The North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE) is spearheading this exploration with its latest initiative, "Run on Less – Messy Middle." This project aims to showcase the capabilities of diverse powertrains in real-world scenarios, providing valuable insights for fleet operators.

NACFE's Initiative: Run on Less – Messy Middle

Starting from September 8, 2023, NACFE officially launched its "Run on Less – Messy Middle" initiative, tracking the activities of 13 fleets across North America. This project is designed to evaluate different fuel technologies and their performance under typical operational conditions.

Kleysen Group, based in Edmonton, is among the featured fleets, operating a Kenworth T880 sleeper tractor powered by a Cummins X15N natural gas engine. This selection reflects a growing trend in the industry toward cleaner energy sources.

Getting Ready for the Run

Mike Roeth, executive director of NACFE, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We’ve finally arrived at go day.” Preparations for this initiative have been extensive, involving a series of boot camps and site visits to each participating fleet. The objective is to observe how different vehicles perform on real routes, addressing critical questions regarding technology effectiveness for various business models.

• Engagement with Fleets: The NACFE team has engaged with each fleet to gather insights, which will inform future decisions on technology adoption.
• Technology Performance: This initiative will help identify the most suitable powertrain technologies for various applications in the trucking industry.
• Real-World Testing: By operating these trucks in their normal environments, the initiative aims to provide concrete data on performance and efficiency.

Participating Fleets and Their Innovations

The fleets involved in the "Run on Less – Messy Middle" initiative are showcasing a variety of advanced technologies, each designed to meet specific operational needs. Below is a list of participating fleets and the unique vehicles they are operating:

• 4Gen Logistics: Volvo VNR day cab electric tractor.
• Albert Transport: 2022 Freightliner Cascadia sleeper tractor, powered by a Detroit DD 15 engine running on diesel.
• Frito-Lay: Volvo VNL day cab tractor utilizing an Optimus Technologies system with B99 biodiesel.
• JoyRide Logistics: Battery electric Windrose sleeper tractor.
• Mesilla Valley Transportation: International LT sleeper tractor with a Cummins X15 engine operating on diesel.
• Nevoya: Battery electric Freightliner eCascadia day cab tractor.
• Penske Logistics: Hyundai Xcient hydrogen fuel cell day cab tractor.
• Pilot: Another Hyundai Xcient hydrogen fuel cell day cab tractor.
• Schneider: International LT with an International S13 engine, frequently utilizing renewable diesel.
• Saia LTL Freight: Battery electric Tesla Semi day cab tractor.
• UPS: Kenworth T680 day cab tractor powered by a Cummins X15N natural gas engine.
• Wegmans: Peterbilt 567 day cab with a Cummins X15N engine, also using natural gas.

Importance of Evaluating Powertrains

Roeth emphasized the significance of this run, stating, “If you are not sure which technology will work best in your fleet or if you previously rejected a powertrain solution, now is a good time to re-evaluate your choices.” This initiative serves as an opportunity for fleets to witness these technologies in action, allowing for more informed decisions regarding future investments.

For fleet managers and decision-makers, understanding the nuances of various powertrains can lead to significant operational improvements. Some key considerations include:

• Fuel Efficiency: Evaluating how different technologies impact fuel consumption and costs.
• Environmental Impact: Assessing the reduction in emissions and alignment with sustainability goals.
• Maintenance Requirements: Understanding the maintenance demands of different engine types and technologies.

Insights Gained from Fleet Engagement

As part of the preparation for the "Run on Less" initiative, NACFE conducted extensive interviews with fleet personnel. A total of 105 individuals shared their experiences and insights regarding the various powertrains in use. These discussions are vital for capturing real-world challenges and successes that fleets encounter.

The insights obtained will be posted on the Run on Less website, where fleet profiles and performance metrics will be continually updated as the run progresses. This transparency will provide invaluable data for the industry.

What’s Next for the Trucking Industry?

The "Run on Less – Messy Middle" initiative represents a crucial step in the North American trucking industry's transition toward more sustainable practices. As fleets explore alternative fuels and innovative technologies, the outcomes of this project will likely influence future policies and investments in the sector.

With the ongoing push for cleaner transportation solutions, initiatives like this not only pave the way for operational advancements but also contribute significantly to reducing the carbon footprint of the freight industry. For more detailed insights, consider watching this informative video:

As the trucking industry continues to navigate this "messy middle," the lessons learned from the participating fleets will be essential in shaping a more efficient and sustainable future.

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