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.”
Ad Loading...
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.
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.
Ad Loading...
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.
The Environmental Protection Agency said California can’t enforce its Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance Regulation, known as Clean Truck Check, on vehicles registered outside the state. But California said it will keep enforcing the rule.
The Trump administration has announced it will no longer criminally prosecute “diesel delete” cases of truck owners altering emissions systems in violation of EPA regulations. What does that mean for heavy-duty fleets?
Natural gas is quietly building a reputation as a clean, affordable, and reliable alternative fuel for long-haul trucks. And Ian MacDonald with Hexagon Agility says the Cummins X15N is a big reason why.
Mercedes-Benz has begun a new series of tests in Europe to validate vehicle compatibility with megawatt chargers and assess charging performance, thermal management, and usability on long-haul duty routes.
Safety, uptime, and insurance costs directly impact profitability. This eBook looks at how fleet software is evolving to deliver real ROI through proactive maintenance, AI-powered video telematics, and real-time driver coaching. Learn how fleets are reducing crashes, defending claims, and using integrated data to make smarter operational decisions.
Fleet software is getting more sophisticated and effective than ever, tying big data models together to transform maintenance, safety, and the value of your existing tech stack. Fleet technology upgrades are undoubtedly an investment, but updated technology can offer a much higher return. Read how upgrading your fleet technology can increase the return on your investment.
Idle reduction for heavy-duty trucks has come a long way. An updated playbook from the North American Council for Freight Efficiency explains what technologies deliver results today — and what’s coming next.
