Freightliner Opens Heavy-Truck Wind Tunnel

April 14, 2004
PORTLAND, OR— Freightliner announced the opening of its heavy-truck wind tunnel yesterday. Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski started the fans of the Freightliner Wind Tunnel at a ceremony here, which was also attended by Portland Mayor Vera Katz. The Freightliner research facility is the only heavy-truck wind tunnel in North America, as well as and the only wind tunnel in North America owned by a truck

PORTLAND, OR— Freightliner announced the opening of its heavy-truck wind tunnel yesterday. Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski started the fans of the Freightliner Wind Tunnel at a ceremony here, which was also attended by Portland Mayor Vera Katz.

The Freightliner research facility is the only heavy-truck wind tunnel in North America, as well as and the only wind tunnel in North America owned by a truck OEM.

The 12,000-square-foot tunnel will be used to refine truck aerodynamics. Freightliner’s goal is to reduce drag by 15% and cut fuel consumption by 5% in its Next Generation truck, due in 2007, according to Michael von Mayenburg, senior vp of engineering and technology.

The wind tunnel will provide uniform, repeatable airflow over tested vehicles, allowing engineers to examine airflow over the hood, under the vehicle, and past the windows and mirrors. In addition, there will be studies on how airflow affects engine cooling and splash-and-spray generation.

All Freightliner commercial vehicles will be tested at this facility, including upcoming and existing products.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

The Road Ahead: 2025 Trucking and Fleet Insights

Discover how fleet operators are impacted by challenges like driver onboarding delays and complex compliance, and the critical need for technology to boost efficiency and cut ...

Driving Growth: How to Manage More Freight

Ready to grow your trucking business? Whether you have 25 or 200 trucks, this guide offers practical tips and success stories to help you expand with confidence. Discover how ...

How to Maximize Fleet Management with Vehicle Bypass

Join us on February 18th to learn how truck weigh station bypass systems boost fleet performance and driver satisfaction.

Optimizing your fleet safety program using AI

Learn how AI supports fleet safety programs with tools for compliance monitoring, driver coaching and incident analysis to reduce risks and improve efficiency.