drafting semi's

[mattbatson]

i think people should drive within their limits and the limits of their car.

A good man knows his limitations.

[PaleMelanesian]

This controlled study shows clearly that drafting has a benefit to both vehicles. The 2nd gains more, but the leader still gains something.
Reducing Aerodynamic Drag and Fuel Consumption (warning, PDF)

That said, I don't consider drafting a valuable or safe technique. Too many bad things can happen too quickly.

[mattbatson]

Originally Posted by PaleMelanesian

This controlled study shows clearly that drafting has a benefit to both vehicles. The 2nd gains more, but the leader still gains something.
Reducing Aerodynamic Drag and Fuel Consumption (warning, PDF)

That said, I don't consider drafting a valuable or safe technique. Too many bad things can happen too quickly.

regardless of this fact, I have a very hard time believing that my little civic sitting 60 ft back from a semi will have any significant effect on it's FE....

thx for the link

[Old Mechanic]

Anything that fills a portion of the low pressure area behind the host vehicle will improve it's mileage. To better understand this imagine completely filling the low pressure area with an object that would provide the perfect shape to eliminate the low pressure area altogether.

That's the perfect boat tail.

regards
Mech

[sheepdog 44]

During my 10 mile non highway commute, drafting has become non advantageous. I accelerate reasonably slower than normal traffic, And let the "pack" flow past me as i keep the optimal speed for the given speed limit. I'd end up using more gas accelerating into position.

The only problem is a certain section of lights stay green for the traffic pack and if i drift too far back i end up hitting red. I like my buffer zone. If there are unexpected reds around a corner i have plenty of room to drift and maintain speed when it changes.

Be safe people!