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F • :'FPIrlENCY
Page 10
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DHL boosts fuel economy by 9% with curtain-sided Teardrop
DHL EXEL SUPPLY Chain claims trials of a new sideaccess, curtain-sided version of Don-Bur's Teardrop trailer have shown a 9% improvement in fuel economy over conventional trailers.
According to DHL: the prototype trailer which it introduced into its fleet in October as part of a threemonth study also offers 10% more load capacity compared with a similarly sized conventional trailer at a gross weight of 38 tonnes.
DHL already runs Teardrop box trailers as part of its contract with Marks & Spencer. A spokesman for DHL says it has been working closely with the trailer manufacturer on the design since the beginning of 2008.
Don-Bur is confident the new curtain-sided version maintains the same aerodynamic benefits as the box Teardrop despite having taller side apertures. Richard Owens, marketing manager at Don-Bur, says other companies have also expressed an interest in the design.
He adds: "DHL has just finished testing it and we understand it will be used on its contracts. We believe the decision by DHL to use the trailer confirms the reputation Don-Bur has for being the most innovative trailer company in the industry."
• Turn to page 44 for an easy-to-understand guide to HGV aerodynamics.