Energy-Intensive Analysis of Truck Transportation

The efficient use of gasoline and diesel fuels in transportation is a step in the direction of conservation of the nonrenewable resource. The energy-intensive analysis presented in this paper develops the concept of energy efficiency in truck transportation and examines its economic implications. Theoretically, energy efficiency (payload, in ton miles per British thermal units) tends to have an upper limit corresponding to the maximum gross vehicle weight allowed under a set of vehicle weight regulations. Energy efficiencies of tractor semitrailers and tractor trailers in Alberta are reasonable, whereas the energy efficiencies of straight trucks are significantly lower by comparison. The benefit in terms of saving fuel by an incremental increase in energy efficiency could result in a corresponding economic benefit if the payload hauled by a truck could be increased by more efficient operation.