There are a variety of ways to reduce your fleet’s fuel consumption.
In addition to the usual measures like ensuring proper tire pressure and maintaining a constant speed,
you can also add various aerodynamic devices to your trailer to reduce drag and increase overall fuel efficiency.
Aerodynamic performance can be maximized through a combination of equipment,reduce effective wind resistance area,
and smooth airflow. These include:
Trailer Skirts:
Trailer skirts hang on both sides of the trailer, from the frame to the rear wheels,
Reduces drag area by directing air on both sides and rear of the trailer.
According to NACFE (North American Council for Freight Efficiency),
Trailer skirts are the most commonly used drag-reducing device,
providing fuel savings of 1% to over 5% compared to trailers without skirts.
Rear Fairing:
The rear fairing helps to reduce drag caused by the low-pressure area that forms at the rear of the trailer.
Trailer fairing are usually collapsible panels that protrude from the rear of the trailer. While they are effective in reducing drag,
can be complicated to use and can prevent the driver from opening the rear door of the trailer. Another option is a rear panel
with the sides and top flush with the edge of the trailer. This design directs airflow toward the rear of the vehicle,
reducing drag without impeding the opening and closing of the rear door.
Testing by the American Trucking Associations (ATA) has shown that most rear panels are more efficient.
Rear panels offer fuel savings of 5% to 15% on most rear panels.
Leading Edge Trim:
The area between the tractor and trailer is one of the worst areas for low air pressure,
It is also the most aerodynamically difficult area.
Trailer leading edge trim or nose cones can help close the gap between the tractor and trailer,
reducing airflow and making the transition from tractor to trailer smoother.
Making the transition from tractor to trailer smoother.
a NACFE study found that these types of gap reduction devices can save between 1% and 2% of fuel.
Aerodynamic Fenders:
Traditional fenders are used to protect vehicles and pedestrians from mud,
but their inherently rectangular design traps wind under the trailer and increases drag.
Vented fenders solve this problem by reducing spray and improving aerodynamics.
Allowing air to flow through the fenders reduces drag during highway driving.Exa
A study by Exa showed that vented fenders can save approximately 2.7% of fuel due to reduced drag.
Which device is most effective?
No definitive answer to this question is present. While each device alone can offer efficiency gains,
it will have the greatest effect when combined with another device,
NACFE suggests that all fleets consider the addition of aerodynamic devices,
the potential savings could be as much as 10 percent for the majority of fleets.
Additionally, many rules may necessitate aerodynamic devices in the near future,
so fleet members should consider incorporating these devices in advance of the upcoming rules.
