Fuel is one of our biggest expenses on the road — and the way you drive that 18-speed Peterbilt can make a big difference in your MPG. Whether you’re hauling heavy or light, over mountains or flatland, there are real ways to squeeze more miles from every gallon. Here’s how smart shifting and driving habits can keep more money in your pocket by helping you reach your weekly and/or monthly fuel bonuses!
Know Your Sweet Spot
Every truck has a “sweet spot” — that RPM range where your engine runs most efficiently. For most modern Peterbilts with a PACCAR engine, that’s usually around 1,250 to 1,450 RPM.
Cruise in top gear as much as possible within that range.
Use torque, not horsepower — let the engine pull instead of revving high.
Shift Smart with an 18-Speed
The 18-speed gives you total control — but it also means you need to be intentional with every gear change.
Skip shift when empty or light. Don’t run through every gear if you don’t need to — it wastes fuel and time.
Split gears when climbing hills to keep RPMs in the sweet spot without overworking the engine.
Float your gears when possible (if it’s safe) — clutch use eats up fuel over time.
Downshift early — avoid hard braking by using the engine to slow down gradually.
Drive Like Fuel Costs $10/Gallon
Ease onto the throttle. Hammering down burns more fuel and adds wear.
Limit idle time. A big engine can burn up to a gallon an hour just sitting.
Use cruise control on flat terrain, but manage it manually in hills to avoid unnecessary downshifting.
Watch your speed. Running 68 MPH vs. 60 MPH could cost you half a mile per gallon or more.
Truck Setup Matters Too
Check tire pressure. Underinflated tires kill MPG fast.
Keep your truck clean. Believe it or not, dirt and grime can slightly impact airflow and drag.
Don’t overload with extras. Every 100 pounds adds up over time.
Bonus: Fuel Stop Tips
Fill up at cooler times of day (morning or night). Fuel is denser when cooler — meaning you actually get a little more for your dollar.
Use reward cards or fleet discount programs to cut down costs at the pump. Love’s is our preferred fuel stop out on the road!
An 18-speed Peterbilt gives you the tools to drive efficiently — but it’s your daily habits that make the difference. Smooth shifting, steady cruising, smart use of gears, and low idle time can boost your MPG!
