Testing looks at fuel economy of Utility trailer aerodynamic tail and side skirt
December 1, 2020 (Las Cruces, N.M.) – Mesilla Valley Transportation Solutions (MVTS), the leader in breakthrough fuel economy testing as well as design and development services for the trucking industry, consistently brings accurate and reliable data identifying fuel-saving technologies. The company recently completed testing for Utility Aerodynamic Technologies on their Utility Aerodynamic Tail (UAT) and Utility Side Skirt. Test results showed that both products improve fuel economy, individually and combined.
According to MVTS certified testing, when the test trailer was equipped with both the Utility Side Skirt and Utility Aero Tail, test results showed a total fuel economy improvement of 6.46 gallons per 1000 miles or 5.56 percent.
“Over the years we have conducted several rigorous tests at our state-of-the-art R&D facility, but a third-party fuel economy test for our aerodynamic devices provides us with calculations that validate our own,” said Craig Bennett, Sr. VP Sales and Marketing at Utility. “Utility’s customers can see that the impact on profitability can be significant when equipping both the side skirt and aerodynamic tail. Compared to other trailer tails, the UAT is lighter in weight and is a low-cost option.” Bennett added, “Fuel economy is the easiest and fastest way to increase your bottom line and see the return on your investment. (ROI)
MVTS certified testing was performed at 65 mph and 45,000 pounds gross vehicle weight using International LT tractors and 2020 Utility 3000R 53-foot refrigerated trailers. During the testing process, MVTS noted that the UAT is low profile, with minimal protrusion from the side or back of the trailer. The company also highlighted that the side fairings require zero driver interaction because they open and close with the doors. These aerodynamic solutions from Utility are unique because carriers can acquire them directly from the OEM with a 5-year warranty, making it easier to specify aerodynamics to the trailer.
Click here to download a full version of the Utility test report.