The United States could save as much as one billion gallons of fuel every year by adopting new aerodynamic technologies for tractor-trailers, a study revealed.
The two year study, undertaken by members of the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) and the Department of Energy (DOE), looked into a variety of design improvements to minimize aerodynamic drag and improve fuel efficiency.
Some of the study’s findings were displayed at the DOE, which include:
- Gap enclosure: minimizes aerodynamic drag in the gap between the tractor and trailer
- Side skirts: reduces airflow under the trailer in crosswinds and improves aerodynamics
- Boat tails: reduces “wake” airflow by tapering the trailer’s back
- Side mirror design: minimizes drag by reconfiguring shape and support systems
Combined, these improvements could result in as great as 23 % reduction of drag. For every 2 % reduction of dragm, there is an equivalent 1 % improvement in fuel efficiency.
International Truck and Engine Corporation, Freightliner LLC, Mack Trucks, Inc., and Volvo Trucks North America comprised the TMA contingent. The four companies represent 75 % of the US market for Class 8 trucks.
The study was funded by the DOE FreedomCAR and Vehicle Technologies Office through the National Energy Technology Laboratory.
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