Eco-Driving Tips Offer Big Fuel Savings

By Jim Mele, Fleet Owner, September 30, 2008

Simple changes in driver habits can bring significant fuel economy savings. To prove that point, Isuzu Motors Ltd. has been holding a series of “fuel economy challenges” around the world to demonstrate the effectiveness of its “eco-driving” techniques.

Last week, 15 challenge participants following six basic techniques suggested by the program’s trainers at the company’s proving grounds on the island of Hokkaido in Japan saw their fuel economy jump by an average of 35%.

Using domestic versions of Isuzu’s N-Series low-cab forward loaded to 14,000 lbs. GVW, the participants negotiated a course that provided both urban and intercity driving cycles, recording individual fuel economy results that ranged from 11 to over 13 MPG.

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SEE-ing is Believing

By Eric Brothers, Fleet Equipment, November 2008

Isuzu helps fleets improve safety, economy and the environment

Fleets try to minimize the impact of rising fuel costs by choosing the most economical vehicle specs for the task and by performing proper maintenance to maximize those benefits. Careful consideration also is given to driving that optimizes efficiencies in traffic, routes and loads, in order to squeeze out a few more miles per gallon. That generally leaves just one area beyond the control of the fleet manager –– driver operation –– but proper driver training can help cut fuel costs, cut emissions and reduce vehicle wear.

The challenge

Isuzu Commercial Truck of America recently invited me to participate in a Safety, Economy, Environment (SEE) program it held recently in Japan. The curriculum focuses on safe driving and fuel efficiency, teaching techniques that help save money and, coincidentally, are also ecologically positive. Isuzu stated that it has a corporate-wide commitment to good stewardship of the environment through its use of green procurement and manufacturing to produce commercial vehicles powered by fuel-efficient engines. In addition, its sales operation support division conducts the seminars on fuel-efficient driving as part of the company’s goal to supply products and expertise that extend the benefits of safety, economy and reduced environmental impact to Isuzu customers.

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Fuel for Thought

By Jack Roberts, Commercial Carrier Journal, November 2008

Taking note of recent fuel spikes around the world, Isuzu Commercial Trucks used a recent visit to Japan to showcase its Fuel Economy Challenge. The truck maker used its test track near the coastal town of Tomokami on the island of Hokkaido to demonstrate proper driving techniques for visiting North American truck editors.

A 30 percent fuel economy boost in less than an hour: Our day at the track started in the classroom and then moved outdoors for a familiarization lap around the short (by American standards) 4.4-kilometer track. Then it was time to run a lap to establish a baseline for comparison purposes. Todd Bloom, Isuzu’s vice president of North American operations, advised us to drive the trucks “like we’d stole ’em.”

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Cut Fuel Costs Up To 40%

By Jim "Buck" Sorrenti, American Towman, December 2008

On The Road With The Isuzu Fuel Economy Challenge In Japan

The Isuzu Fuel Economy Driver Training Program and vehicle health reports show how drivers can dramatically improve their fuel economy with hands on training and classroom teaching.

The tow boss may not have control over OPEC and the price of fuel, but may well be able to influence how efficiently fuel is used by his tow fleet. Can the tow operator's driving skills and habits significantly bring down fuel usage? Well, I traveled all the way to Japan to participate in Isuzu Truck's "Fuel Economy Challenge" to find out for myself.

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Isuzu is actively developing new trucks and engines that will feature further enhancements to protect our environment:

• NOx levels have been reduced 88% from 1973 levels particulate matter has been reduced 97% from 1973 levels and the company is targeting a further 8% reduction of CO2 emissions compared to 2004 levels.
• Isuzu is working to improve the recyclability of its trucks through out each vehicle’s life cycle and the company is finding new ways to use recycled materials in the vehicles. In addition, Isuzu is reducing the use of heavy metals and alternative materials are being used instead of mercury, lead, cadmium and hexavalent chromium.
• Isuzu is developing hybrid engines by using its own technologies as well as technologies from other companies, such as Enova. Testing of hybrids is currently underway in Japan and the U.S.