Trailer industry refocuses on fuel economy, aerodynamics

Trailer makers are beginning to deploy more and more enhanced aerodynamic options for their products to help motor carriers beef up fuel economy – improvements that, though largely limited to dry van units for now, truck OEMs believe are critical to furthering the fuel saving footprint of tractor-trailers in the near future.

“It’s not all about the vehicle; it’s the combination of the truck and trailer. To reach full potential for fuel economy, you need to treat the trailer equally,” explained Ken Damon, manager of vehicle performance for Peterbilt Motors Co. “OEMs can do everything possible to the tractor to improve fuel economy, but you will plateau if you don’t also work on the trailer.”

For the thorough review of truck and trailer makers’ thoughts regarding the increased focus on trailer performance, see additional coverage over on FleetOwner.com.

A gallery of product offerings on display at the recent Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) annual meeting is here.