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CM VERDICT
Page 45
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First, let us state the obvious. From the MIRA research commissioned by Lawrence David, it's clear that significant fuel savings can be made by optimising the aerodynamic efficiency of your trailers, and it is essential to see the complete combination as one single aerodynamic unit.
Optimising the wind deflectors of the truck, equipping the trailers with large front-radius deflectors and side skirts, and tapering the roof at the rear appear to give the best fuel efficiency gain, with a fuel saving potential of 5.5% over the 4.5m curtainside trailer with standard aerodynamic tractor which was used as the control unit.
The height of the trailer appears to be the factor that has the single greatest effect on fuel efficiency, and the most obvious advice to take from this research would seem to be: only add more height if it is absolutely essential to your operation.
If you can get away with a low-height trailer, and match it to your tractor with a decent air kit, then you can look forward to the best fuel savings.