Tonneau covers have been found to improve fuel economy in RAM trucks by minimizing aerodynamic drag and maximizing airflow.
The fuel prices are driving you into trying to find the most efficient way to drive your RAM truck. You’re about to learn how tonneau covers can actually improve your fuel economy, based on real-world performance tests and my 6 years of Ram truck experience.
The Science Behind Tonneau Covers and Fuel Economy
If you leave your RAM truck bed exposed, the air jumps out of the truck bed like a parachute. That creates massive drag that makes your engine crank faster and burn more fuel.
A properly installed tonneau cover improves the aerodynamics of your truck by allowing air to circulate over the bed. This slimmed-down effect minimizes drag, thus improving fuel economy.
Understanding Drag Coefficient
The drag coefficient (Cd) determines how fuel-efficient your truck is. The average uncovered RAM truck bed has a Cd of 0.5-0.6.
Adding a tonneau cover cuts this down to 0.3-0.4 and saves a lot of fuel. This gain is especially noticeable at higher speeds.
Real-World Fuel Savings with Tonneau Covers
With a high-quality tonneau cover, you will get 5-10% more miles per gallon, as I know from my own experience and thorough research. That equates to significant fuel savings for the average RAM truck driver.
Your actual savings will depend on:
- Your driving habits and speed
- The type of tonneau cover you choose
- Your RAM truck model and year
- Weather conditions and terrain
Best Tonneau Cover Types for Fuel Efficiency
Soft Roll-up Covers
These lightweight options offer excellent aerodynamics without adding significant weight. You’ll typically see the best fuel economy improvements with these covers.
Roll-up covers provide easy access to the entire bed when needed. They’re also typically the least expensive, so they’re a great pick for budget-conscious homeowners.
Tri-fold Covers
A popular choice among RAM owners, tri-fold covers provide a good balance of aerodynamics and functionality. They’re particularly effective at highway speeds.
These covers offer better security than soft roll-ups and maintain their shape well in various weather conditions. Installation is usually straightforward, taking about 30-45 minutes.
Hard Covers
While heavier, hard covers can still improve fuel economy when properly designed. Look for low-profile models to maximize aerodynamic benefits.
Hard covers provide the best security and durability, making them ideal for owners who frequently carry valuable cargo. They also tend to last longer than soft covers.
Retractable Covers
These are the perfect combination of aerodynamics and convenience. But they tend to cost quite a bit more.
Maximizing Your Fuel Savings
To get the most benefit from your tonneau cover:
- Ensure it’s properly installed and sealed
- Maintain highway speeds when possible
- Keep the cover clean and well-maintained
- Regular inspection of seals and clamps
- Address any loose fittings immediately
- How to Replace Your Ram 1500 Clutch Safety Switch: A Hands-On Guide
- How to Reset Computer on Dodge RAM 1500: A 5-Minute Fix
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Let’s break down the potential savings:
- Average fuel cost savings: £300-£500 annually
- Initial cover investment: £300-£900
- Return on investment: Usually within 1-2 years
- Increased resale value: Up to £200-£300
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Performance
Regular Cleaning
Clean your cover monthly with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the material.
Seal Inspection
Check the seals every three months for wear and tear. Replace damaged seals promptly to maintain aerodynamic efficiency.
Hardware Tightening
Regularly inspect and tighten all clamps and hardware to ensure optimal performance.
Additional Benefits Beyond Fuel Economy
Your tonneau cover investment provides more than just fuel savings:
- Enhanced cargo security from theft and weather
- Improved truck aesthetics and resale value
- Better cargo organization and protection
- Reduced wind noise at highway speeds
- Protection from UV damage to bed contents
Choosing the Right Cover for Your RAM Model
RAM 1500
Most compatible with all cover types. Popular choices include the BAK Revolver X4 and Gator ETX Soft Roll-Up.
RAM 2500/3500
Heavy-duty models benefit from stronger covers. Consider the UnderCover Flex or Extang Solid Fold 2.0.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much fuel economy improvement can I expect?
Most RAM owners report 5-10% improvement in fuel efficiency, depending on driving conditions and cover type.
Which tonneau cover is best for my RAM truck?
Soft roll-up covers typically offer the best combination of fuel efficiency and practicality for most RAM models.
Do tonneau covers affect payload capacity?
Most modern covers add minimal weight (20-50 pounds) and don’t significantly impact your truck’s payload capacity.
Are tonneau covers worth the investment?
Given the fuel savings and additional benefits, most RAM owners find tonneau covers pay for themselves within 1-2 years.
Is installation difficult?
The majority of current tonneau covers are simple clamp-on covers that can be slapped on in no more than 30 minutes.
What are the average lifetimes of tonneau covers?
Soft covers typically last 3-5 years (hard covers can last 5-10 years or more with proper care).
The Bottom Line on Tonneau Covers and Fuel Economy
Adding a tonneau cover to your RAM truck is a great way to save fuel money. Your best bet is to pick an airy, lightweight design and make sure to install it properly.
You see, just the fuel savings alone is reason enough to get one, but with the added cargo protection and better styling, it’s even better worth adding to your RAM truck.
