New Wheel Covers Hide Fasteners for Optimized Aerodynamics
Deflecktor has designed a new generation of aerodynamic wheel covers, which it says offer a more aerodynamic shape because the fastening system is entirely contained behind the smooth, aerodynamic wheel cover face.
This clear cover illustrates the attaching mechanism.Photo: Deborah Lockridge
2 min to read
This clear cover illustrates the attaching mechanism. Photo: Deborah Lockridge
ATLANTA — Deflecktor has designed a new generation of aerodynamic wheel covers, which it says offer a more aerodynamic shape because the fastening system is entirely contained behind the smooth, aerodynamic wheel cover face.
“This is the first cover that the fastening system isn’t taking the front seat to the aerodynamic shape,” explained company founder Jon Fleck at the North American Commercial Vehicle Show. “The aerodynamic shape is optimized. There’s no buttons, there’s no brackets, there’s no nuts and bolts.”
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The company took a similar approach to design covers for the front axle, which deals specifically with the paddlewheel effect. “The paddlewheel affect is addressing the lug nuts spinning at 520 revs per mile within this apocalyptic flow of air at the front of the vehicle," Fleck explained.
The new wheel covers are lightweight and durable and are priced to allow fleets to realize a faster return on their investment.
“With no low pressure troughs on its face, the various finishes live long and stay clean through the most challenging environments. The covers float entirely free of the wheel,” says a press release.
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A simple, rigged fastener design offers instant on/off access to the wheel end. Sensory feedback assures the user of the wheel cover’s secure and accurate installation
Deflecktor offers these wheel covers in a durable injected polymer that feature several finish choices; mirror chrome, painted silver (11 coats), optically clear polycarbonate, and an injected color of choice. All metal components are aerospace-quality stainless that are entirely sourced in the USA. Assembly occurs in the St Croix River Valley of Minnesota and Wisconsin, where most research and development happens.
This new Deflecktor cover is aggressively priced to ensure the fastest ROI. The Deflecktor design has multiple worldwide patents pending.
The company has been making aerodynamic wheel covers since the early ‘90s, with a product originally called the Spot wheel cover. But as founder Jon Fleck explained, the “Spot cover was dear, and fuel wasn’t.” But by 2006 Schneider was testing them with good results. The Great Recession put a pause on the adoption, but by 2010, however, Schneider was using the wheel covers and experiencing about a 1% fuel savings, Fleck said.
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Watch to learn how Deflecktor's new wheel cover design is taking a simpler approach to aerodynamics, with an eye toward making it more practical for both trucks and trailers.
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