Increased fuel prices are a new reality that we will have to live with indefinitely. The consequences are felt by everyone, even the youngest, let alone large farms constantly looking for new cost-saving solutions. However, for those who want to save money, it is worth focusing not only on lower fuel consumption but also on the greatest possible efficiency in its use. Based on its own, partners„ and clients“ experience in the fields, "Ivabaltė" has gathered the most important points that will help reduce fuel costs and increase productivity with little effort.
Black inventory management
Yes, the saving process can begin before the fuel even reaches the tractor's tank! Paint above-ground fuel storage tanks a light colour and protect them from direct sunlight to avoid excessive evaporation and literally watch your money fly away.
Perform regular technical preventative maintenance checks.
Changing lubricants, engine oil and air filters on time has a significant impact on fuel consumption. Furthermore, a service increases the likelihood of detecting any technical issues that may be causing higher fuel consumption. Last but not least, the condition of the tyres and their air pressure are also important – properly balanced and inflated tyres reduce fuel consumption by 3–4 per cent.
Size appropriate for the nature of the work
It is important to have different sizes of machinery, suited to tasks of varying difficulty. A large and powerful tractor will waste fuel during simple tasks, and an overloaded lightweight tractor will burn significantly more fuel than usual.
Select equipment based on specific criteria
Before purchasing a new tractor, consider not only the diesel and „AdBlue“ consumption, but also other parameters indicating more economical fuel usage, such as the engine speed required to achieve maximum torque. Another criterion worth relying on is the official DLG (German Agricultural Society) test, which provides comprehensive technical information verified by third-party experts.
The most economical and repeatedly rated by customers FENDT model 724 Vario Gen6, according to official DLG tests, demonstrated diesel consumption of 263 g/kWh and AdBlue consumption of 10.7 g/kWh in field operations. Another flagship, nominated as the most fuel-efficient in its power category, is FENDT 1050 Vario, whose fuel consumption in field work, according to the DLG test, was only 233 g/kWh diesel and 23.1 g/kWh AdBlue.
Precise route planning
Every minute lost on unnecessary or repetitive manoeuvres in the field costs both precious fuel and your even more precious time. To avoid sacrificing productivity due to poor route planning, consider investing in advanced satellite solutions.
The automatic steering system with satellite technology helps to avoid overlapping and increases the coverage of the area being worked, meaning you can cover significantly more ground with the same amount of fuel. The digital planning tool allows you to save up to 10% in costly farm expenses, including fuel. After all, driving the same route twice is a waste of money for anyone, isn’t it?
