Why Your Off-road Fuel-powered Truck Burns Too Much Fuel

The owners of Off-road Fuel-powered Trucks often ask a simple question: why does my tank empty so fast?

What Really Drives Fuel Burn In An Off-Road Fuel-Powered Truck?

Fuel use is not a mystery; it follows physics and habits. Rough terrain, heavy loads, and stop-and-go trails demand more torque, so consumption climbs. When wheel slip rises on mud or sand, the engine works harder to maintain momentum. Aerodynamic drag also grows quickly with speed on open tracks. Even small issues - under-inflated tires or late gear shifts - compound the problem day after day.

•   Terrain & Traction. Loose gravel, ruts, and steep grades force the drivetrain to deliver sustained torque. If 4WD stays engaged on firm ground, extra friction quietly eats fuel.

•   Vehicle Mass. Tools, racks, and overfilled cargo boxes add weight. Extra 100 kg means extra throttle at every start.

•   Driving Technique. High revs before shifting, aggressive braking, and long idling raise consumption.

•   Maintenance Gaps. Clogged filters and old oil reduce efficiency. Tyres out of spec increase rolling resistance.

The result is a truck that feels strong but drinks more than it should. From Dongfeng's perspective as a manufacturer, the solution is twofold: better engineering and better operating habits. That is the thinking behind the RICH 6 lineup.

Engineering Answers From Dongfeng: Rich 6 Highlights

Dongfeng's RICH 6 is a leading brand in mid-to-high-end pickups, designed to balance off-road capability with real-world efficiency. The platform offers diesel and gasoline choices, 2WD and 4WD, and multiple transmissions - including 5MT, 6MT, and an 8AT option - so you can match power delivery to your routes instead of wasting fuel with a one-size setup.

1. Powertrains That Work Smarter

Our diesel range centers on the ZD25T5 and M9T engines. The ZD25T5 delivers up to 103 kW and 305 Nm for steady, low-rpm pull. The M9T steps up to 120 kW and 380 Nm, ideal for steep grades and soft ground where torque matters. Strong low-end torque means fewer rev spikes and fewer downshifts - two direct wins for an Off-road Fuel-powered Truck's economy.

• Gearing That Fits The Job

Choose 6MT for precise control on climbs or opt for 8AT to keep the engine in its sweet spot on mixed trails. Correct gearing lets you crawl when needed and cruise when you can, avoiding the "rev-and-waste” cycle that burns fuel.

• Chassis That Saves Energy

A 207 mm minimum ground clearance clears obstacles without constant throttle stabs. Approach and departure angles up to 31°/26° reduce scraping and momentum losses on breakovers. With gradeability up to 40%, the truck climbs without frantic throttle, and the 255/70R16 tyres provide a stable contact patch to cut slip. Braking uses front disc, rear drum, tuned for durability and consistent drag characteristics.

• Right-Sized Fuel System

A 73 L tank offers range without forcing you to haul unnecessary fuel weight for short-duty cycles. For long hauls, it supports fewer refueling stops and consistent load planning. Top speed up to 170 km/h is available, but economy peaks well below that - use the headroom sparingly.

• Efficiency Meets Comfort And Safety

Comfort keeps drivers smooth and alert: automatic AC with pollen filter, 8-way electronic driver's seat (available), and a 7 - 9 inch multimedia system with Bluetooth, voice control, Wi-Fi module, and OBD display so you can monitor vehicle status. Safety tech - ABS+EBD+ESP, tire pressure monitoring, rearview camera, parking sensors, LED daytime running lights, and double airbags - helps maintain stable, predictable driving. Stability is not only about safety; it improves fuel consistency on uneven terrain.

• Built For Work

With a wheelbase of 3150 mm, cargo options up to 2160×1562×475 mm, and curb weights starting around 1710 - 1960 kg depending on configuration, RICH 6 supports real payloads without pushing the engine into wasteful high-rev operation. That balance is key to keeping an Off-road Fuel-powered Truck efficient in daily use.

CTA: Want the torque without the thirst? Book a Dongfeng RICH 6 demo and get a configuration guide tailored to your routes, loads, and climate.

How To Cut Fuel Use Today (And Keep Performance)

Small changes compound into big savings. Start with the easiest wins, then refine.

✅  Quick Checks You Can Do

•  Tire Pressure, Weekly. Use the built-in TPMS as your baseline and verify with a gauge before long trips.

•  Shift Earlier. On 6MT, short-shift into the torque band; avoid high-rpm sprints between obstacles.

•  Clean Air Path. Replace clogged filters on schedule; airflow keeps combustion efficient on dusty trails.

•  Lighten The Load. Remove unused tools and seasonal gear. If a roof rack is not in use, take it off to cut drag.

❓ When To Choose 2WD Or 4WD?

Engage 4WD for mud, sand, steep grades, or rock steps where traction limits efficiency. Return to 2WD on firm surfaces to reduce driveline losses. With the M9T's 380 Nm available low in the rev range, you can stay calm and let torque do the work instead of flooring the throttle.

✅  Plan Your Pace

Keep speed steady where the track allows. The RICH 6's chassis geometry - 31° approach, 26° departure - lets you slow down before obstacles and roll across without scraping. Less braking and fewer throttle surges save fuel and reduce heat stress on the drivetrain.

• Match Configuration To Mission

If your routes are mostly gravel and light gradients, a 2WD, 6MT diesel can be supremely efficient. For mixed clay tracks and frequent climbs, 4WD with 6MT or 8AT keeps the engine in its efficient band. Dongfeng dealers can map your typical payload and terrain to the right axle ratio and tyre spec.

• Maintain For The Long Run

Stick to oil intervals and inspect suspension. A sound double-wishbone front suspension and steel spring rear maintain proper alignment, reducing drag and uneven wear. Brakes that release cleanly after water crossings prevent subtle drag that wastes fuel.

CTA: Ready to optimize your Off-road Fuel-powered Truck? Talk to a Dongfeng specialist for a fuel-saving setup, from engine choice to tyres and accessories.

Dongfeng builds the RICH 6 to tackle real work, not just brochures. With the right engine torque, gearing, chassis geometry, and a few smart habits, your Off-road Fuel-powered Truck can deliver the capability you need - without draining the tank.