Overdrive Magazine | Trucking Business News & Owner Operator Info
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/187653
Business Dollars & Sense Pushing the limit on trailer fuel economy By Kevin Rutherford L ast month I talked about the specs behind our first- and second-generation Signature Series trucks. We also have a first generation of the Signature Series trailer and are working on the second generation. The first trailer design is complete, and we have seven models in real-world operations. Studies show potential for trailer improvements that would add one full mile per gallon. After looking at the available products and technologies on the market, I began searching for partners to help me integrate the key ones and bring the concept to market. My primary objectives were increased fuel mileage, lower maintenance costs and long life. I started with fuel efficiency. It offers the biggest impact on the bottom line through two main areas: aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance in the tires and the mechanical components. Years ago, after researching trailer side skirts, I found problems with certain products. Some can be damaged easily and expensive to maintain; it didn't seem that any would last as long as the trailer. Some side skirts are not effective in crosswinds. Some evidence showed that side skirts decreased airflow around the wheels, brakes and hubs, leading to higher temperatures and unwanted tire wear. Then I came across a product called an undertray system. I contacted the company, which I learned had years of experience in aerodynamic design from the aerospace and racing industries and was doing extensive testing on efficient trailer design. Not only did I settle on the undertray system for my project, but I also was able to recruit the company's engineers to help me with the entire trailer design. Next I needed a trailer manufacturer to complete and build the project trailer. After talking to several companies, I settled on a The Signature Series trailer was displayed in August at the Great American Trucking Show relatively unknown manufacturer, in Dallas. RSI, which now is owned by Conand increased floor strength; it should way Freight and called Con-way last 15 years or more. Logistics posts Manufacturing. With my team and logistic bar organizers can be complete, I built that first-generation customized. trailer. The trailers in service are showing I decided on the full UT-6 Plus system from SmartTruck. The system, fuel mileage improvements of 15 percent or more over a standard which incorporates six aerodynamic trailer. If you would like more components, has been shown to information about the Signature yield significant fuel economy Trailer, as well as a list of its specs improvements. It's also lightweight, and options, visit letstruck.com/store/ rugged and durable. It has virtually signature-trailer. no maintenance cost over the life of The first projects used proven the trailer. technologies. Now it's time to step To lower mechanical and rolling further outside the box and test some resistance, axle design was critical. I used air disc brakes, an integrated tire new products and theories. So next month I'll cover the next-generation inflation system, MicroBlue bearings Signature Series Truck and Trailer and Road King premium shocks. combination. This lowered mechanical resistance and maintenance costs and improved safety. To improve rolling resistance, I Kevin Rutherford is an chose Michelin X-One XTA trailer accountant, small-fleet owner and the host of Sirius XM tires. This new wide-single design Radio's "Trucking Business & lowers weight and rolling resistance Beyond." Read the Dollars & and also minimizes lifetime tire cost. Sense archive at OverdriveOnline.com/Dollars. I finished off the design with a new Contact Rutherford through LetsTruck.com. composite floor that reduced weight 22 | Overdrive | October 2013 Business_D&S_1013.indd 22 9/30/13 3:58 PM