With fuel prices continuing to soar, haulage operators are looking at ways of reducing fuel consumption. Tyre pressure is one of the simplest, and most overlooked ways to reduce fuel consumption on heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), writes John Loughran.

Tyre pressure directly affects rolling resistance, which is a major contributor to how much fuel a truck burns.

Why tyre pressure matters

When tyres are under inflated, more of the tyre surface contacts the road. That increases deformation and heat buildup, which raises rolling resistance. The engine then has to work harder to keep the vehicle moving, using more fuel.

By contrast, properly inflated tyres:

• Roll more efficiently

• Reduce drag and energy loss

• Improve overall fuel economy

Real-world impact

Even small deviations matter. Just 10% under inflation can increase fuel consumption by around 1–2% Across a fleet, that adds up quickly in fuel costs it also accelerates tyre wear, meaning more frequent replacements.

Additional benefits beyond fuel savings

Maintaining correct tyre pressure extends tyre lifespan, improves vehicle handling and braking, reduces the risk of blowouts and helps maintain proper load distribution across axles.

Best practices for HGV operators

• Check tyre pressure regularly (at least weekly, and before long hauls)

• Always measure when tyres are cold (before driving or after long rest)

• Follow manufacturer-recommended pressures based on load

• Consider installing a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) for real-time alerts

• Train drivers to spot visible under inflation or uneven wear.

Important nuance

Over inflation isn’t the answer either. While it can reduce rolling resistance slightly, it worsens grip and braking, causes uneven wear (centre of the tread) and can compromise safety, especially on wet or uneven roads

Keeping tyres at the correct pressure is a low-cost, high-impact way to cut fuel use in HGVs. It won’t transform efficiency on its own, but combined with good driving habits and maintenance, it’s one of the easiest wins available.