6 Key Factors To Consider When Spec’ing a Leased Truck
With more choices than ever, here’s how to make this important decision
Spec’ing the right truck is one of the most important decisions carriers make. The optimal configuration improves fuel economy, reduces downtime and maintenance costs, and boosts safety and driver satisfaction. Fleets have more choices than ever, ranging from traditional diesel or alternative fuel power trains, advanced safety systems and specialized duty-cycle configurations, making data-driven spec’ing even more important.
1. Start With the Application
The right spec depends heavily on how a truck is used. Urban applications often require enhanced visibility, backing aids, cameras and audible alarms while long-haul operations may benefit most from collision avoidance systems, lane departure warning, smart cruise and sleeper-cab comfort features.
To dig even deeper, fleets can use telematics, engine control module readings and historical route analysis to look at the real-world demands placed on their equipment. Key factors include average speed, time spent in top gear, typical gear usage, payload requirements and horsepower needs.
Understanding the application also helps fleets determine which systems or upgrades are needed. Liftgates may be needed for deliveries to residential areas, retail storefronts, healthcare facilities or construction sites where docks and forklifts are not available. Routes with frequent stop-and-go patterns or tight backing maneuvers may require enhanced braking components, visibility systems or more maneuverable chassis designs.
2. Safety, Visibility and Driver Comfort Features
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) have become a critical part of fleet safety programs. American Trucking Associations has reported the fleets are increasingly adopting automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance and blind-spot detection, which can help reduce collisions, protect pedestrians and lower liability. Some manufacturers now offer safety packages that bundle smart cruise control, lane departure warning and collision avoidance systems.
Visibility upgrades, such as enhanced mirror packages, convex mirrors and fender-mounted mirrors, can be beneficial in urban and pedestrian-dense areas. Rear cameras, side cameras and backup alarms can be particularly useful in applications that involve a lot of backing.
Interior ergonomics also play a significant role in reducing fatigue and improving driver satisfaction. Upgraded seating, quieter cabins, and, in sleeper cabs, better mattresses and amenities like microwaves, refrigerators and Wi-Fi connectivity can significantly improve the driver experience. Fleets can further enhance performance and safety with improved lighting packages and disc brakes for shorter stopping distances.
3. Powertrain Considerations
While diesel engines remain the industry standard, fleets may also evaluate natural gas and battery-electric options. Selecting the right powertrain depends on horsepower and torque requirements and payload and route demands. For alternative fuels, the availability of supporting infrastructure, such as EV charging, is also an important factor.
Fleets also need to align axle configuration and gear ratios with anticipated routes, weight and equipment demands. The right drivetrain combination not only improves fuel economy but can also extend component life and reduce long-term operating costs.
4. Vehicle Size and Duty Cycle
Selecting the right vehicle size is especially important in environments with tight delivery parameters. Operations involving narrow residential streets, congested urban areas or frequent low overhead clearances may benefit from medium-duty trucks, step vans or cargo vans. Smaller platforms often offer tighter turning radiuses and greater maneuverability, and depending on their weight rating, drivers may not need a commercial driver’s license, which can expand the pool of qualified driers.
5. Physical Characteristics and Aerodynamics
A truck’s physical characteristics can significantly impact both performance and fuel efficiency. Wheelbase length affects stability, driver comfort and turning radius. Exterior features such as fairings and side skirts can improve fuel economy, but their effectiveness depends on operating speed. Long-haul applications tend to see a greater return than those that don’t spend a lot of time at highway speeds.
6. Tires
A truck’s tires affect performance and operating costs, and the ideal tire specification depends on duty cycle, environment and the fleet’s priorities. Urban operations need tire compounds with high durability that are designed to withstand curb impacts, frequent turning and stop-and-go cycles. These tires typically use harder rubber compounds to resist scrubbing and abrasion.
For regional and long-haul applications, low-rolling-resistance tires can significantly improve fuel economy, especially when paired with aerodynamic features and optimized inflation practices. Fleets should also evaluate load-range requirements, tread depth, and casing durability if they plan to pursue retreading programs, which can extend tire life and reduce lifecycle cost.
Aligning the Spec With Fleet Strategy
Ultimately, the right vehicle spec aligns goals, budget and operational needs. Penske works with fleets to analyze route patterns, freight characteristics, seasonal variability, growth plans and sustainability goals to help fleets spec a vehicle that will operate safely, efficiently and reliably.