Scania tests new "boat-tail' technology
Scania is testing an aerodynamic device which could improve fuel savings in its trucks and give environmental benefits.
The rear air deflector, known as a boat-tail, can cut fuel consumption by up to two per cent. This could mean a truck covering 200,000km a year would see fuel savings of 1,200 litres and carbon dioxide emissions reduced by three tonnes.
Tests of the fuel saving technology are being carried out in Sweden and Denmark ahead of an anticipated change in law to allow the device to be used on the roads. The boat-tail is mounted on a normal three-axle semi-trailer used for long haulage in Europe and increases the length of the vehicle combination by 30cm - equivalent to the extra length permitted for a tail-lift or other loading equipment. A recent proposal would amend the current Directive 97/27 EC to allow trailers to be fitted with a rear air deflector, increasing the vehicle length by 30cm and making the Scania fuel saving device a legal addition to trucks throughout Europe.
“We await final word on how road and traffic authorities in the Netherlands and Germany view our interpretation and application of the EU directive,” said Anders Gustavsson, managing director of Scania Transport Laboratory.
Fuel saving devices are becoming increasingly important in the road haulage industry. Operators continually seek cost reductions and customers expect positive environmental action from the firms they use. The Scania boat-tail fuel saving technology addresses both issues.
“This kind of aerodynamic improvement is positive for industry profitability as well as the environment and is equivalent to the results of several years of engine and chassis development work,” Mr Gustavsson continued.
He explained that the Transport Laboratory trucks, which cover 360,000km a year and consume 26 litres of fuel per 100km, would see savings of 1,900 litres of diesel and five tonnes of CO2 emissions each, every year.
The fuel saving technology does not reduce cargo space, ensuring the trucks remain as cost-effective as possible, and can be retrofitted on existing trailers.
“In light of this, I hope that European trailer manufacturers will find it of interest to begin developing an integrated boat-tail. It involves a very simple technical solution that could quickly help reduce transport costs and environmental impact,” Mr Gustavsson concluded.
