Two new axle ratios are available from Meritor, optimized to meet trucking's demand for improved fuel efficiency.

Meritor’s 14X tandem drive axles with a 2.79 ratio will go into production in June, and a 2.85 ratio will be ready later this summer. When used in combination with the Cummins and Eaton SmartAdvantage Powertrain, the new axle ratios will improve fuel efficiency for linehaul applications through downspeeding.

“With these new axle ratios, drivers will experience a fuel-economy ‘sweet spot’ at road speeds of 62 to 65 mph,” said Ken Hogan, general manager, Axles, North America for Meritor. “We’ve optimized this engine-transmission-axle combination to deliver uncompromising performance and efficiency.”

To maximize fuel economy and vehicle performance, fleets should consider the entire drivetrain, including engine parameters, transmission and rear-axle gearing and tire sizes, suggests Hogan. He recommends fleets consult their OEMs, local engine distributors or Meritor representative to review exact vehicle and application needs.

The 14X axles with 2.79 and 2.85 ratios are supported by DriveForce and OnTrac, Meritor's 110-member strong dedicated support team.