May 9, 2008 - Schneider National, the largest truckload carrier in the U.S., is limiting its drivers to a top speed of 60 miles per hour in an effort to boost fleet efficiency.

The company estimates that the new speed limit will reduce its diesel fuel consumption by more than 3.75 million gallons each year and reduce carbon emissions by 83.25 million pounds each year – the equivalent of taking 7,259 cars off the road.

Schneider’s announcement was made during a press conference for the American Trucking Association (ATA), which yesterday unveiled new strategies for minimizing the carbon footprint of the trucking industry. (The company served on the ATA task force charged with developing the plan.)

ATA's six recommendations for reducing truck fleet emissions are:

1. Set governors on new trucks to limit speeds to no more than 68 mph and reduce the national speed limit to 65 mph for all vehicles.
2. Reduce engine idling.
3. Increase fuel efficiency by encouraging participation in the U.S. EPA's SmartWay Transport Partnership program.
4. Reduce congestion by improving highways, if necessary by raising the fuels tax.
5. Use more productive truck combinations.
6. Support national fuel economy standards for trucks.

Find more information on ATA's sustainability plan here.