Truck Aerodynamics: Improving Fuel Economy With Mods

Nowadays, fuel prices are perpetually on the rise. Pickup truck owners are constantly looking for ways to stretch a little further with every drop of gas. Pickup trucks are often at a disadvantage due to their inherent qualities that make them guzzle up more gas than smaller cars.

While advancements in technology have certainly improved fuel efficiency in newer models, owners of older pickup trucks suffer from decreased fuel efficiency. Upgrading with certain truck accessories and aftermarket parts can boost its gas mileage. Explore how such upgrades can help your trusty truck go the extra mile on a single tank.

Are Mods Helpful for Pickup Trucks to Achieve Fuel Efficiency?

Fuel economy is not always the top priority when owning a truck. However, if there’s a chance you can save some money, it can be beneficial in the long run. Mods and upgrades can significantly enhance the fuel efficiency of pickup trucks, but their effectiveness lies in addressing various factors that impact the consumption of gas or diesel:

• Aerodynamics: One of the factors influencing the truck's fuel efficiency is its aerodynamics. Pickup trucks are designed with boxy shapes, which often lead to increased air resistance. Aerodynamic resistance affects the fuel efficiency of pickup trucks, especially when traveling at high speeds exceeding 50 km/h. Understanding how aerodynamics works is one of the keys to reducing the impact and lowering fuel costs. Mods aimed at aerodynamics improvement, such as installing a tonneau cover, can lessen wind drag and enhance fuel efficiency.
• Rolling Resistance: Using the wrong components can affect the vehicle's fuel efficiency. For instance, the truck's rolling resistance may suffer when using the incorrect type of tires and not taking proper care of them. It will result in fuel efficiency losses that will hurt your pocket as you need to refill more often. According to Michelin, tire rolling resistance is responsible for the world's carbon dioxide emissions of around 4 percent. Choosing the proper type of tires and doing some maintenance work for your vehicle can significantly improve mileage.
• Tire Pressure: Maintaining optimal tire pressure is crucial, not just for pickup trucks but also for all vehicles. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency. You must regularly check the condition of the tires and maintain their recommended pressure.
• Prevent Engine Problems: Upgrading some parts of your truck’s engine can help optimize combustion and fuel delivery. Get better mileage if the fuel system is in good condition and combusts gas or diesel without any problem. Don’t forget to inspect the fuel system of your truck to know if there are any unusual engine noises, such as sputtering or knocking. Noise may indicate fuel system issues, particularly with fuel pumps or injectors. If you notice that your truck consumes more fuel than usual for the same distance traveled, it could mean a problem with a combustion problem or fuel delivery.
• Reduce Backpressure: Upgrading to a more efficient exhaust system can reduce back pressure, which results in enhanced exhaust gas flow. Not only does it improve engine performance, but it also leads to better fuel economy.
• Weight Reduction: If the vehicle carries unnecessary weight, it can negatively impact fuel efficiency. Removing unnecessary items from your truck bed can help lessen drag. In case you need to put some accessories, consider lightweight materials.

Truck Accessories That Improve Fuel Efficiency

Here are some mods and upgrades that can help your vehicle achieve better fuel efficiency:

Tonneau Covers

Aerodynamics is a complicated field, so truckmakers design their vehicles to get the best mileage. Even the hit TV show MythBusters tested this theory by leaving the tailgate down. These protective covers shield the cargo from changing weather, dirt, dust, and other elements that can damage the bed. However, not all truck owners are aware that tonneau covers can improve aerodynamics by reducing drag. This can result in noticeable fuel savings. It can help improve your gas mileage to some degree because the cover changes the way air flows across the bed and over the cab.

Running Boards and Step Bars

While seemingly unrelated to fuel efficiency, these accessories can enhance aerodynamics by directing air around the sides of the truck. This slight adjustment can contribute to a more streamlined profile. Running boards provide a stable and flat stepping step for easy access to your truck. Use it to wipe your feet to ensure the cleanliness of the interior while boosting the style of the vehicle. Step bars create a streamlined appearance. Moreover, they protect the door from the stuff kicked out by the wheels and shield the lower body panels from scratches and dents.

Bed Liners

Smooth bed liners can help reduce air turbulence within the truck bed. This accessory can support the tonneau cover to protect the bed from damage, ensuring longevity. It also contributes to improved aerodynamics.

Grille Shutters

Some pickup trucks come with grille shutters that can automatically close at higher speeds, which helps to reduce drag. A lot of newer vehicles use technology to save fuel. Active grille shutters improve the vehicle’s aerodynamics. If your truck does not have this feature, aftermarket options are available.

Performance Exhaust Systems

Replacing the stock with a high-flow exhaust system can minimize back pressure, allowing the engine to operate more efficiently. Exhaust systems and mufflers can improve gas mileage for better airflow. Aside from improved fuel efficiency, high-quality exhaust and muffler can enhance the truck’s overall performance.

Intake System

Depending on the vehicle and other factors, upgrading the intake system provides the truck engine with cooler air. It optimizes combustion, which potentially leads to increased fuel efficiency.

Engine Tuning

Besides enhanced combustion and fuel delivery for better mileage, ECU tuning can increase the vehicle’s performance. This procedure comprises manipulating code and sensors to reach the desired results. Make sure it is done right by an expert to achieve better engine performance.

Tire Upgrades

About 24 percent of road vehicle CO2 emissions and 20 to 30 percent of automobile fuel consumption are tire-related. Tires can significantly affect the fuel efficiency of the vehicle primarily through rolling resistance. Upgrading the stock tires with better quality low-resistant tires helps achieve improved fuel efficiency without failing on performance.

Better fuel economy for your truck

You can achieve fuel efficiency for your pickup truck by mods and upgrading some parts. They offer a practical and tangible solution that allows you to transform your gas-guzzler truck into a more economical vehicle. By improving aerodynamics with mods and accessories, you can significantly impact your truck's fuel efficiency. Considering these upgrades can be a wise investment in the long run. You also contribute to an eco-friendly and more sustainable future.