Utility Trailer and ATDynamics Inc. today announced the commercial launch of the aerodynamic TrailerTail, a rear-drag reduction device proven to increase fuel efficiency of long-haul tractor-trailers by more than 5%.
ATDynamics developed the collapsible TrailerTail extension to meet the durability and usability requirements of long-haul trucking operations, while dramatically cutting emissions and fuel costs. The TrailerTail also improves vehicle safety by providing additional stability and reduced spray at the rear of the trailer.
"The industry is in transition." says ATDynamics CEO Andrew Smith. "Diesel prices are at record highs and concern over global warming will lead to even stricter emissions standards. At this critical time, we are providing long-haul fleets a trucker-tough technology that can reduce fuel consumption and pay for itself in less than a year."
The new ATDynamics TrailerTail will be showcased at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky. Information about the TrailerTail will be available at the ATDynamics booth (#16117, North Wing).
The TrailerTail will be on display at the Environmental Protection Agency's SmartWay booth (#13502, North Wing), where it will be attached to the rear of the industry's first EPA Certified SmartWay trailer, a 4000D-X Dry Van built by Utility Trailer.
"The aerodynamic TrailerTail will provide our customers with significant added fuel savings," states Craig Bennett, Senior VP of Sales and Marketing at Utility Trailer. "Our 4000D-X has redefined the lightweight standard in the dry van category, enhancing fuel efficiency. We're excited about making this best-in-class trailer even better."
Third-party SAE J1321 testing conducted by Robert Transportation at Energotest 2007 in Montreal, Canada showed that the TrailerTail boosts fuel efficiency by 5.1% at 62 mph. At 68 mph the TrailerTail yields potential efficiency gains of greater than 6%. Based on average long-haul trailer mileage, the TrailerTail can deliver more than a billion dollars in fuel savings annually to the North American trucking industry.
The TrailerTail is constructed of lightweight, rugged panels designed to endure daily wear and driver abuse, yet ensure smooth opening and closing. A patented TrailerTail hinge system allows truckers to operate doors and access loading bays normally. The TrailerTail collapses from four feet to three inches in length in less than 8 seconds.
"The least aerodynamic way to carry goods down the highway is in a large rectangular box," explains Smith. "Forward-thinking fleet operators are now serious about improving the aerodynamics of their fleets. Starting with the TrailerTail and with other products now in the pipeline, our goal is to dramatically improve the sustainability of the global freight industry."
ATDynamics is an affiliate of the Environmental Protection Agency's SmartWay Transport Partnership, a voluntary program which accelerates the trucking industry's efforts to conserve fuel and reduce emissions.