Thread: Truckers
View Single Post
Old 04-03-2008, 09:23 AM   #1 (permalink)
brucey
A madman
 
brucey's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: WV
Posts: 1,018

Pequod - '17 Subaru Outback
90 day: 22.79 mpg (US)
Thanks: 73
Thanked 183 Times in 98 Posts
Send a message via AIM to brucey
Truckers

I don't know if its legit or not, being so close to april fools, but it does seem plausible. Supposedly independent truckers are striking to object to high fuel costs.

Semi's move the entire country along, so we can't go without them, but at the same time. Why not mock up some aero improvements that truckers might try? 6-12 MPG seems to be average semi mpg, which is actually pretty good considering its hauling enough weight to carry most of our cars.. With a 0.6 or more Cd, some aero improvements could go a LONG way...

Anyways, heres a quick sketch I made up, I dont know how practical it would be, but its just to get ideas rolling.



Obviously still a LOT of improvements to be made. Some design issues like the rear wheel skirts (attached to the front of the trailer) need to give way a LOT. As well has some sort of system to connect the cab/trailer aeroly while still giving play to allow for maneuvering and suspension work. Something like how train cars connected, except smooth would work. The rear boat tail would have to be inflatable or removable quickly, since the door is back there. Theres already air systems on trucks for the brakes, so I was thinking air might be a better idea anyway.

  Reply With Quote