Aerodynamic trailer cuts fuel and emissions by up to 15 percent

PART

The objective of PART, a partnership between TU Delft, TNT, Scania Beers BV, FOCWA Carrosseriebouw, Ephicas, Kees Mulder Carrosserieën, Van Eck Carrosseriebouw, Syntens, Squarell Technology, Emons Group and NEA transport research and training, is to develop and test aerodynamic applications for trailers. In contrast to research into the aerodynamic properties of trucks, comparable research into trailers is still relatively new. Applications such as the Ephicas sideskirts or boat tails could lead to reductions in air resistance of up to 30%, which translates into a reduction in fuel consumption and emissions of as much as 15%. Moreover, it contributes to increasing profits in the highly competitive world of road transport.

More information

For more information and with any media questions, please contact:
Professor Michel van Tooren, +31 (0)15 278 4794,
Gandert van Raemdonck, +31 (0)15 278 9550, +31 (0)6 48261905,
Research Information Officer Roy Meijer, +31 (0)15 278 1751,
High resolution photographs of the tests are available on Capital Photos: www.presslink.nl/TNT
For more information on the PART partners, please see: www.part20.eu

About sideskirts

Sideskirts are plates which are mounted on the sides of trailers, primarily with a view to underrun protection. The new aerodynamic design of the sideskirts substantially reduces the air currents alongside and under the trailer and thereby also the air resistance. Initial driving tests with a trailer equipped with the aerodynamic sideskirts over a straight stretch of public road revealed a cut in fuel consumption of between 5% and 15%. Subsequent research comprising long-term operational tests by TNT displayed a fuel reduction of 10%. These results confirm the calculations and findings from the wind tunnel tests: these had already established that the observed 14 - 18% reduction in air resistance led to 7 - 9% less fuel consumption. In practice, the figures are in fact even better.

About the boat tail

Road tests have also already been initiated on what are known as boat tails. These constructions on the rear of a trailer ensure a reduction in the wake: the vacuum and air currents which arise when the trailer is moving. In theory, a boat tail could also mean a cut in air resistance of 30%, with a fuel reduction of 10 - 15%. These road tests should also confirm the earlier, highly positive results from the windtunnel.

Incidentally, this study does not aim to produce boat tails for commercial use. Limitations in their practical use, in particular when loading and unloading, safety aspects and problems with exceeding maximum vehicle sizes prevent these being used for many types of vehicles. This research focuses on gaining knowledge and developing different practicable solutions; the second development phase will concentrate on these aims.