Mesilla Valley Transportation announced that based on testing completed by its subsidiary, MVT Solutions, it is now installing Ex-Guard LT series grille guards on more than 1,300 trucks.

“With the testing done by MVT Solutions, we have the confidence to invest in Ex-Guard grille guards based on their ability to prevent costly front-end damage to our tractors,” said Royal Jones, president and CEO of Mesilla Valley Transportation. “With their experience and verified test results they are helping us make a more informed decision by considering maintenance and operational costs, and by eliminating any variables about fuel efficiency.”

MVT Solutions, which does fuel economy testing and design and development services for the trucking industry, had evaluated Ex-Guard LT series grille guards, manufactured by Ex-Guard Industries. The tests concluded that the devices, which provide front end damage protection, have little to no negative impact on fuel efficiency.

“Typically, interfering with the airflow on a vehicle can impact fuel economy significantly,” said Daryl Bear, lead engineer & COO at MVT Solutions. “However, Ex-Guard products minimize their effect on aerodynamic drag because they are mounted several inches away from the front of the vehicle and are designed with round tubing, allowing air to continue flowing.”

For the Ex-Guard evaluations, two test vehicles ran simultaneously at 65 m.p.h. on a 9-mile circle track. The 2019 International LT models were specified with Cummins X15 engines and Eaton 10-speed automated manual transmissions. The tractors pulled 53-foot Hyundai dry vans equipped with Michelin Energy Guard aerodynamic systems, and both tractors and trailers were fitted with single wide-base tires.