Quote:
Originally Posted by ausias
The surprise is the short version of the trailer wich yesterday achieved cd=0.201, if i could build a trailer extension of my "future" van with that shape I could do the same work but above de 42 mpg when full loaded with the standar gearings. Oh my god! I need to win one jackpot and start building a prototype. Why we changed the fleet some months ago? Why? Double mpg instead some percentatge increase (+13 to +25% mpg) we achieved could be done if we thinked a żlittle? before. I was focused on little driving tips, speeds, aeromods (and axle ratio) changes instead of thinking we could go far away from the make.
If you are a big enterprise like UPS its easier to R+D: UPS Testing High-MPG Composite Vans (video) they design their own vans using aluminium, diesel, custom body, and now composites. |
The technology has been languishing for 90 years or so,and 'cheap' fuel has been a popular argument for not embracing low drag.
The U.S. Pentagon is paying over $400.00/gallon in Afghanistan and all branches of the military are investigating 'efficiency' like a vengeance.So far,no one's genitals have fallen off despite fears of many a manly American male that these technologies are reason enough for homophobia.
When 'men' lose their fear of spontaneousautopenileatrophy,we may see some new interest in Class-6,7,and 8 low drag.REALLY low drag!
Until then,you'll be one of trucking's nouveau-riche,laughing all the way to the bank with your tax-free wealth.
