Accessing remote sites in New Zealand often involves traversing challenging terrain while carrying tools, equipment and personnel. These journeys can consume significant quantities of fuel, leading to increased operational costs and environmental impact. By implementing strategic fuel efficiency techniques, organisations can reduce both financial outlay and carbon footprint while maintaining effective access to remote locations.
4WD training will cover the topics below.
Vehicle Selection and Preparation
The foundation of fuel efficiency begins with appropriate vehicle selection. Light four-wheel drive vehicles with modern, fuel-efficient diesel engines typically offer the best balance between capability and economy for remote site access, although battery electric vehicles are starting to catch up in terms of range and capability. When outfitting your vehicle fleet, consider the actual requirements rather than defaulting to the largest available option.
Prior to departure, ensure your vehicles are properly maintained. Correct tyre pressures, clean air filters, and well-serviced engines can significantly improve fuel consumption. A vehicle operating at peak efficiency may use 10-15% less fuel than one with neglected maintenance. Replace clogged air filters promptly, as they can increase fuel consumption by up to 10%. Similarly, ensure engine oil is changed according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, as old oil increases friction and reduces efficiency.
Route Planning and Navigation
Thorough route planning is essential for fuel efficiency. Use topographical maps, GPS systems, and local knowledge to identify the most direct yet practical routes. Consider terrain characteristics that affect fuel consumption, such as steep gradients, loose surfaces, and river crossings.
When feasible, combine multiple site visits into a single journey rather than making separate trips. This approach not only reduces total distance travelled but also decreases the number of cold starts, which consume disproportionately more fuel.
Driving Techniques
The driver’s technique has perhaps the greatest influence on fuel consumption in remote terrain. Anticipate changes in gradient and surface condition, maintaining steady throttle inputs rather than rapid acceleration and braking. When approaching hills, build momentum gradually on the approach rather than accelerating hard on the incline itself.
Select appropriate gears to keep engine revolutions within the optimal range. For most diesel engines, this is typically between 1,800 and 2,500 RPM, where torque is maximised and fuel consumption is minimised. When traversing loose surfaces like gravel or sand, use higher gears in low-range rather than higher RPM in high-range where possible.
Tyre Management for Different Terrains
Tyre pressure significantly affects both traction and fuel efficiency. On sealed roads, maintain manufacturer-recommended pressures to reduce rolling resistance. When transitioning to off-road conditions, adjust pressures according to the terrain.
For gravel roads, reduce pressures by approximately 10-15% to improve traction while maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency. In soft sand or mud, further reduction may be necessary (sometimes in excess of 50% for sand), but be aware that this will increase fuel consumption on firmer sections. Always carry a reliable pressure gauge and compressor to enable appropriate adjustments throughout your journey.
Load Management
Efficient packing is often overlooked yet important for fuel economy. Remove unnecessary equipment and distribute weight evenly, keeping the heaviest items low and centrally positioned. Secure all items to prevent shifting, as movement can impact vehicle dynamics and driver concentration, both of which affect fuel consumption.
Roof racks and external cargo carriers significantly increase aerodynamic drag, even when empty. If external cargo systems are necessary, pack them efficiently and remove them when not required. A fully loaded roof rack can increase fuel consumption by up to 20% at highway speeds.
Alternative Power Sources
For extended stays at remote sites, consider supplementary power sources to reduce the need for idling engines or operating generators. Solar panels, portable power stations, and efficient battery systems can provide sufficient electricity for tools, communications, and essential equipment while eliminating fuel consumption during stationary operations.
Weather Considerations
Adapt your approach according to weather conditions. Headwinds can substantially increase fuel consumption, so plan journeys to avoid prevailing strong winds where possible. Extremely cold conditions increase fuel consumption during warm-up periods, making journey consolidation even more important in winter months.
Implementing comprehensive fuel efficiency strategies for remote site access requires attention to vehicle selection, preparation, driving technique, and operational planning. By addressing these factors systematically, organisations can achieve substantial reductions in fuel consumption while maintaining effective access to even the most challenging locations. The combined benefits of reduced operational costs, decreased environmental impact, and extended operational range make fuel efficiency an essential consideration for all remote site operations.
Darren has written over 3000 articles about driving and vehicles, plus almost 500 vehicle reviews and numerous driving courses. Connect with him on LinkedIn by clicking the name above
