Gas vs. Diesel

A guide to analyzing the difference in costs and benefits of gasoline or diesel engines, specifically for government fleets. Diesel's mileage advantage is only 2 MPG among light or medium trucks. Government fleets usually do not take advantage of the greater longevity of a diesel engine. The acquisition cost for a diesel truck may be $8,000 more than the cost of gasoline-powered truck.

It’s up to the fleet manager, in conjunction with peer discussions and reasoned consideration, to be the voice of reason in the sometimes highly charged specification process. As the subject matter expert, the fleet manager has a responsibility to ensure the best, most capable and cost-effective vehicles are selected, in spite of the wishes and pressure from outside. The fleet manager is the last line of defense in ensuring taxpayers’ vehicle investments are reasonable and represent the best value and return.