Truck Fuel Tank Capacity: Everything You Need To Know

If you are a truck owner or operator, understanding the fuel tank capacity of your truck is crucial. You might wonder why this information is so important. Here’s why: In India, logistics is a significant industry, transporting 4.6 billion tonnes of freight annually. Logistical businesses are essential for moving goods across the country and seek every opportunity for growth and profitability. One key factor in achieving profitability is understanding fuel tank capacity and fuel efficiency. This knowledge helps in planning operations more cost-effectively.

In this blog, we will explore the fuel tank capacities of different truck segments, focusing on 10 wheeler, 12 wheeler, and 18 wheeler trucks. We will also look at intermediate commercial vehicles (ICVs) with high fuel tank capacities in India.

Fuel Tank Capacity vs. Fuel Efficiency

When comparing fuel tank capacity to fuel efficiency, it's important to understand both terms. Fuel tank capacity refers to how much fuel a truck can hold, while fuel efficiency measures how far a truck can travel on a given amount of fuel. A larger fuel tank means fewer refueling stops, which can be convenient for long trips. However, better fuel efficiency means a truck uses fuel more effectively, which can lower overall costs. Simply having a larger tank doesn’t guarantee cost savings if the truck is not efficient. Therefore, balancing both factors is key. Trucks with optimal fuel efficiency and an appropriately sized tank offer the best overall performance and cost-effectiveness.

Understanding Fuel Tank Capacity

Here are the trucks by their wheel type fuel tank capacity details: The following details are:

10 Wheeler Trucks

10 wheeler trucks are considered medium to heavy-duty vehicles. They are commonly used for large cargo haulage operations. The fuel tank capacity for these 10 tyre trucks typically ranges from 200 to 400 litres. For instance, the Mahindra Blazo X series, a popular medium and heavy commercial vehicle in India, offers fuel tank capacities that suit various logistical needs. A larger fuel tank allows for longer travel distances without frequent refuelling, making these trucks ideal for regional haulage.

12 Wheeler Trucks

12 wheeler trucks are generally used for continuous haulage operations, transporting heavy cargo from warehouses to industries. These trucks usually come with a fuel tank capacity ranging from 300 to 500 litres. For example, the Tata Signa 3525.TK tipper is equipped with a 300-litre fuel tank, catering to the needs of heavy-duty operations. A larger fuel tank in a 12 wheeler truck means fewer refuelling stops, which can be crucial for maintaining efficiency in long-haul operations.

18 Wheeler Trucks

18 wheeler trucks, often referred to as tractor-trailers, are used for hauling oversized cargo over long distances. These tractors have fuel tanks with capacities ranging from 400 to 600 litres. The Mahindra Blazo X 55 is a prime example of an 18 wheeler designed for high fuel efficiency. The larger fuel tank capacity in these trucks supports continuous haulage with minimal refuelling interruptions, which is essential for long-distance transport.

ICV Trucks with Highest Fuel Tank Capacity in India

Intermediate Commercial Vehicles (ICVs) are used for freight movement within and between cities. These vehicles typically have a gross vehicle weight ranging from 10 tonnes to 17 tonnes and are suited for moderate to heavy loads. Here are some notable ICVs with high fuel tank capacities in India:

Mahindra Furio 17

The Mahindra Furio 17 is powered by a robust mDi Tech, 4-cylinder, BS6-compliant diesel engine that generates 525 Nm of torque. The truck features a standard 190-litre fuel tank, with options for 235-litre and 330-litre tanks based on customer needs. The Mahindra Furio 17 is designed for heavy-duty operations and is priced between Rs 25.99 lakh and Rs 26.12 lakh (ex-showroom). The larger fuel tank options can help in reducing refuelling stops, improving operational efficiency.

Tata T.18 Ultra SL

The Tata T.18 Ultra SL is known for having one of the highest fuel tank capacities among ICV trucks. It is powered by a 5 LNG BS6-compliant diesel engine that produces an impressive 700 Nm of torque. The T.18 Ultra SL comes with a 250-litre fuel tank as standard. The truck also offers a 60,000 km service interval and long intervals for hub greasing and clutch and gear oil changes, making it a cost-effective choice for businesses.

BharatBenz 1917R

The BharatBenz 1917R features a 4D34i model diesel engine that generates 520 Nm of torque, making it suitable for medium to heavy-duty haulage. It is equipped with a 215-litre fuel tank, which supports continuous haulage operations. The BharatBenz 1917R is an affordable option, starting at Rs 28.35 lakh, and is designed to offer both efficiency and reliability for various logistical needs.

Why Fuel Tank Capacity Matters

Understanding the fuel tank capacities of trucks is essential for several reasons:

1. Operational Efficiency: Trucks with larger fuel tanks require fewer refuelling stops. This means more time on the road and less downtime, which directly impacts profitability. Fewer stops translate to better operational efficiency and reduced costs associated with refuelling.
2. Route Planning: Knowing the fuel tank capacity helps in planning routes effectively, especially in areas with limited refuelling infrastructure. Proper route planning ensures that trucks can complete their journeys without running out of fuel, thus improving overall business performance.
3. Cost Management: Larger fuel tanks can reduce the frequency of refuelling, which can lead to cost savings. Additionally, understanding fuel efficiency in relation to tank size helps in budgeting and managing operational costs more effectively.
4. Business Growth: For logistical businesses, efficient fuel management can lead to increased profitability. By optimizing fuel usage and minimizing refuelling stops, businesses can achieve better margins and support growth.

Are Larger Fuel Tanks Always Better? Rethinking Fuel Efficiency and Cost

Larger fuel tanks can be beneficial because they allow for longer trips without frequent refueling. However, bigger tanks do not always mean better. The real value lies in fuel efficiency, which measures how far a truck can travel on a specific amount of fuel. A truck with a large tank but poor fuel efficiency may still incur high fuel costs. Additionally, larger tanks can add weight to the truck, affecting performance and fuel consumption. It's important to find a balance between tank size and fuel efficiency. Often, a well-designed truck with good fuel efficiency and an appropriately sized tank offers better overall savings and performance.

Conclusion

Knowing the fuel tank capacity of your truck is not just about understanding how much fuel it can hold. It is about optimizing operations, improving efficiency, and ensuring profitability. Whether you operate a 10 wheeler, 12 wheeler, or 18 wheeler trucks, or manage intermediate commercial vehicles, having detailed knowledge of fuel tank capacities helps in making informed decisions that drive business success.

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