ArvinMeritor is renewing a heavy-duty truck design partnership program with Detroit-based College for Creative Studies (CCS) for a second consecutive year. This year's program will focus on how to deal with proposed regulations that demand fuel improvements along with reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
Navistar International's truck designers are also being consulted on the program, noted Mark West, CCS professor & assistant chair of transportation design.
“We know that it is important that students stay abreast of any new laws; they must look at the entire picture when designing a vehicle, not just the aesthetics,” he pointed out.
The multi-phase design program includes extensive research and on-site visits with suppliers, addressing fuel efficiency, sustainability/recycling, and aerodynamic issues. The students also considered vehicle life expectancy, hybrid drives, integrated solar panels, highway safety, driver comfort and safety, and serviceability, West said.
