A US company has just presented a redesigned aerodynamic system that has the potential to reduce fuel consumption by up to three gallons for every 1,000 miles on the road.

Dubbed the Trailer AeroSlider, the system was made by Texas-based engineering and manufacturing company FlowBelow Aero. The firm develops aerodynamic solutions for Class 8 semi-trucks and trailers.

The new device was revealed at the American Trucking Associations’ Management Conference & Exhibition. Running from October 17 to 20 in the city of Charlotte, North Carolina, the event focuses on commercial vehicles and trucking tech.

According to company representatives, the system can slash air resistance around the trailer wheels and suspension components. Additionally, it weighs less than 30 lbs, can be installed in under an hour (roughly 45 minutes), and requires no driver involvement once fitted. The system could cover its initial cost within a year.

At highway speeds, trucks experience significant air resistance, also referred to as aerodynamic drag, due to their large, boxy shapes. This resistance increases fuel consumption, particularly at speeds above 31 miles per hour (50 kilometers per hour).

Aerodynamic improvements mostly focus on trailer fronts and sides. Wheels and suspension parts, however, also generate turbulence. The AeroSlider was hence developed to address this issue, improve airflow around the trailer’s tandem axle assembly.

Instead of blocking the airflow, the fairings redirect it outward and backward as it passes the wheels. This reduces the turbulence around the suspension and in the trailer’s wake, and lowers the aerodynamic drag.

Source link