The commercial fleet industry primarily relies on diesel and gas as fuel sources. While each company may use a different fuel option, we’re going to focus on diesel truck rentals. Through our in-depth research and hands-on experience, we’ve put together some insightful information on the different diesel truck rental types and the circumstances in which diesel serves as an ideal fuel source.
What’s important to note here is that no one fuel source is better than the other. The type of fuel that’s more feasible depends on the application. Before we list the different types of diesel trucks, let’s discuss when diesel is a better option than other types of fuel.
Benefits of Using a Diesel Truck Rental
Vehicle Costs
One of the most important factors associated with renting diesel trucks is the initial vehicle cost. A high vehicle cost automatically increases its renting cost. While the diesel option will cost you around $7,000 to $10,000 more than the gas option, factors like engine durability and fuel economy still make diesel truck rentals a more feasible and affordable choice.
The fuel economy, for instance, is much better for diesel trucks compared to their gas counterparts. The engines of diesel trucks last much longer than those of the gas option, which need to be maintained more often. However, the vehicle configuration and the type of vehicle also affect the vehicle cost in the long run.
Maintenance Costs
Despite the fact that maintenance is costlier for diesel engines, when it comes to vocational fleets, they are a much more viable option than gasoline engines. This is explained by the higher resilience of diesel engines. Since they burn the fuel at a slower pace, less mechanical pressure or stress is exerted on the parts. Diesel engine parts last longer so you can travel longer distances before any of them need to be replaced. This also means that a diesel truck does not have to be maintained as often.
For instance, diesel trucks typically travel over 7,500 miles before an oil change is required. In comparison, gasoline engines need to get the oil changed every 3,000 miles.
Projected Annual Miles
The projected annual miles that the truck will cover are extremely important when you’re considering the type of trucks you want. As a rule of thumb, a gasoline engine is more viable if the annual miles are less than 25,000. At this distance, diesel will save you 30% in terms of fuel economy, but the cost of gasoline will still remain lower than the cost of diesel.
As soon as your projected annual miles exceed 25,000 miles per year, diesel becomes more cost-effective. The reason why diesel becomes more economical over this distance is that beyond this point, diesel gives more miles per gallon, which means that its overall mileage is better than that of gasoline.
Trailer Needs
Pulling a trailer significantly impacts the fuel economy, the wear-and-tear of the vehicle, its transmission as well as its cost. Because diesel engines are much more powerful with better fuel economy and more capable transmissions, they are ideal for pulling heavy trailers from time to time. Thus, if you use large trailers frequently, a diesel truck rental is a viable option.
Mileage Ratings
Even though diesel is more expensive, diesel engines give about 20 to 30% better mileage than gasoline engines. Diesel engines run over 100,000 miles more than gas engines. Even when a diesel truck has 150,000 miles, the market still perceives the value of the truck, placing it at a higher value than its gasoline counterpart.
Eco-Friendliness
It’s well documented that diesel engines used to contribute significantly to pollution. However, they are much more eco-friendly these days. If your company prioritizes sustainable practices, you can opt for greener diesel options and be more environmentally responsible.
Types of Diesel Truck Rentals
¾ Ton Pickup
Often called a “heavy-duty” truck, this diesel pickup rental offers you the power you need without having to compromise on any of the easy-to-handle and economical features. A ¾-ton pickup offers excellent fuel economy and maximum torque. Plus, the package has a high trailer-towing capacity, and upgraded tires for maximum performance.
Retaining sufficient power with the crew on board can be challenging. Besides being spacious to accommodate 6 crew members, the ¾-ton pickup maintains the power you need. With 17-20 miles per gallon of diesel fuel, this truck certainly is a cost-effective option.
1 Ton Flatbed
The 1-ton flatbed truck is among the most versatile diesel pickups available out there. It remains one of the most sought-after vehicles in numerous industries, particularly in construction and government work. Its outstanding features include the reinforced rear bumper hitch assembly and a gooseneck hitch. Besides this, this type also assures maximum torque and impressive fuel economy — 1-ton trucks often push more pound-feet of torque than their gas-powered counterparts.
Hence, whether your industry is construction, transportation, or any other, these 1-ton flatbeds can facilitate you in tough projects. Versatile enough to cater to a wide variety of industries, the truck can be viewed as a black canvas, carrying the tools you need. You can easily transport accessories such as hose reels, inverters, toolboxes, etc., to the job site.
1.5 Ton Flatbed
If you’re looking for even more power, payload, and towing capabilities, the 1.5-ton flatbed truck is for you. Ideal for high-profile projects, a 1.5-ton flatbed truck provides the maximum payload. Equipped with upgraded tires and suspension, this massive diesel truck features a 40,000-lb gross combination weight rating. In addition, it comes with a high-capacity trailer tow package, decent fuel economy, and maximum torque.
Get a Diesel Pickup Rental from Summit Fleet
Summit Fleet offers a perfect fleet solution depending on your needs. All you need to do is disclose your fleet needs and let us know which truck size you think is ideal for your company. Not only will we deliver a vehicle to you in perfect condition, but we will also take care of the initial acquisition costs. Unless you plan to use the truck for an extensive period of time, you won’t face any significant repairs. Aside from the fuel costs and negligible maintenance costs, you won’t have to pay as much as if you had purchased a diesel. Enjoy The benefits of no long-term commitments.
We will gladly deliver your fleet to the project site anywhere in the USA. Then when you’re done, we pick up the trucks right from the site. Off-road projects are no problem and a mileage allowance is based on your needs.
Summit Fleet truly believes in a “customer first” approach and will be happy to help you rent the truck that’s best for you. Get your rate today to get started.
