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Aerodynamic artic cuts drag
Page 12
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• TNT, Ricardo, MAN, the Department of Energy and Cartwright Trailers have completed stage one of their joint development of an aerodynamic artic.
Wind tunnel tests of models have indicated a drag reduction of 45%. It is hoped that final results will reduce drag by more than 50% to produce a fuel saving of 25%.
A 40% scale model is now being developed for further tests in the Motor Industry Research Association's wind tunnel early next year.
TNT Express plans to introduce vehicles fitted with the aerodynamics advances on its trunking operations.
Ricardo predicts that overall fuel savingg will ultimately ex ceed those of the Argos aerodynamic rigid "due to the generally higher speed and longer journeys of articulated vehicles."
The aerodynamic design could also help reduce spray and noise, and improve handling. TNTs group fleet engineer, Alan Parker, says: "The findings could have a major impact on energy saving for transport operators and also wider environmental issues."