ATDynamics, Inc., is launching a new aerodynamic system for roll-door semi-trailers capable of saving the transportation industry a projected $3 billion in fuel over the next decade.
The TrailerTail Roll, or "RollTail," will be the first commercially available aerodynamic tail fairing designed specifically for fleets operating trailers with roll-up doors rather than swing doors. Current estimates indicate there are over 500,000 roll-door trailers circulating on U.S. highways, reaching speeds over 40 mph where rear suction drag significantly diminishes vehicle fuel economy.
ATDynamic's Trailer Tail device fits only trailers with swing doors.
"We look forward to working with the leading roll door trailer fleets, in addition to our existing swing door trailer customers, to save the industry hundreds of millions of dollars annually," commented Andrew Smith, CEO and founder of ATDynamics.
Each RollTail will improve tractor-trailer fuel economy by 4-5% at highway speeds by streamlining the airflow at the tail end of the trailer. ATDynamics optimized the technology through comprehensive rolling-road wind tunnel testing at the Automotive Research Center in Indianapolis, IN, and through on-road SAE Type II J1321 fuel economy testing.
In addition to fuel savings, the RollTail will increase vehicle safety by reducing spray in wet weather and increasing trailer stability in high winds.
The patent pending design requires zero driver interaction and can be installed by two people in 45 minutes. The RollTail retracts automatically along the sides and top of the trailer when a trailer is backed into a loading bay and deploys automatically as the vehicle pulls away.
The TrailerTail Roll will qualify as an EPA Smartway Verified Advanced Rear Fairing and will allow stand-alone compliance with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations for trailer aerodynamics.
Light Weight, DOT Compliant
The RollTail is made of a clear polycarbonate material that will not obscure the lights, nor alter their diffusion pattern. The material is treated with UV material to prevent fading or yellowing ATDynamics says.
The device does not impact trailer loading or cube capacity and is compliant with Department of Transportation dimension and visibility requirements.
The technology is available as a retrofit device or for factory installation.
"Compressed freight rates are a continuing challenge to trucking fleets," said Bren Marshell, ATDynamics regional sales manager. "TrailerTails provide an immediate way to reduce costs, and the TrailerTail Roll will save over 6 gallons of fuel for every 1,000 miles a trailer is pulled at highway speed -- that's two to three cents savings per mile."
The TrailerTail Roll is available as a simple retro fit or factory installation. It can be fitted to van bodies of various heights, and ATDynamics says it is currently working on a version for straight truck bodies used by expeditors. It weighs 160 lb, and has a list price of $1599.00. It will be available this summer.
