ATDynamics announced the commercial launch of its aerodynamic TrailerTail, a rear-drag reduction device proven to increase fuel efficiency of long-haul tractor-trailers by more than 5 percent.
TrailerTails are concave, rigid structures extending up to 4 feet off the rear of a trailer, which collapse effortlessly to ensure easy access to frieght and docking facilities. The device creates a smooth airflow behind a tractor-trailer to reduce rear drag and enhance truck power and performance characteristics.
ATDynamics developed the collapsible TrailerTail extension to meet the durability and usability requirements of long-haul trucking operations, while dramatically cutting emissions and fuel costs. The TrailerTail also improves vehicle safety by providing additional stability and reduced spray at the rear of the trailer.
"The industry is in transition." says ATDynamics CEO Andrew Smith. "Diesel prices are at record highs and concern over global warming will lead to even stricter emissions standards. At this critical time, we are providing long-haul fleets a trucker-tough technology that can reduce fuel consumption and pay for itself in less than a year."
The new ATDynamics TrailerTail will be showcased at the Mid-America Trucking Show, March 27-29, in Louisville, Ky., on display at the Environmental Protection Agency's SmartWay booth, where it will be attached to the rear of the industry's first EPA Certified SmartWay trailer, a Utility 4000D-X dry van.
Third-party SAE J1321 testing conducted by Robert Transportation at Energotest 2007 in Montreal, Canada, showed that the TrailerTail boosts fuel efficiency by 5.1 percent at 62 mph. At 68 mph the TrailerTail yields potential efficiency gains of greater than 6 percent.
The TrailerTail is constructed of lightweight, rugged panels designed to endure daily wear and driver abuse, yet ensure smooth opening and closing. A patented TrailerTail hinge system allows truckers to operate doors and access loading bays normally. The TrailerTail collapses from 4 feet to 3 inches in length in less than 8 seconds.
"The least aerodynamic way to carry goods down the highway is in a large rectangular box," Smith says.
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