FleetDrive Issue 53 - June 2025 | Page 26

Aftermarket Parts That Lower Fleet Emissions

WORDS BY ANBY ALCOMENDAS

Fleet sustainability is not only about buying new electric vehicles. It also comes down to how you upgrade and maintain the vehicles you already own. By choosing the right aftermarket parts, fleet managers can reduce emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and extend the life of their current vehicles.

These upgrades are practical, affordable, and can be rolled out without major changes to your infrastructure.
1. Low-Rolling-Resistance Tyres
Tyres affect fuel use more than most people think. Low-rolling-resistance( LRR) tyres are built to reduce friction with the road, so the engine does not need to work as hard.
This upgrade can lower fuel consumption by up to five percent per vehicle. Over a year, that can lead to major savings in fuel and carbon emissions. LRR tyres also tend to last longer, which means less waste and fewer replacements.
2. Aerodynamic Add-ons
Vehicle drag increases at higher speeds, especially on highways. Aerodynamic parts help reduce this drag, which leads to better fuel economy.
Popular add-ons include roof fairings, side skirts, underbody panels, and cab-to-trailer gap reducers. These parts are often seen on longhaul trucks, but smaller vans and utes can benefit too. Even a small improvement in airflow can result in meaningful fuel savings over time.
3. Engine Control Modules with Eco Tuning
Aftermarket engine control modules( ECMs) allow you to fine-tune how an engine performs. Ecotuned ECMs adjust things like fuel injection and throttle response to focus on efficiency rather than power.
This type of tuning works best for vehicles used in city driving or regular delivery routes. It can reduce emissions and fuel use, as long as the modules are installed correctly and meet local regulations. Always choose certified installers to avoid issues with compliance or warranty.
26 ISSUE 53 JUNE 2025 / WWW. AFMA. ORG. AU