“SuperTruck” Achieves 54% Fuel Efficiency Enhancement

A truck called the “SuperTruck” has achieved fuel efficiency 54% greater than that of average long-haul trucks. The SuperTruck achieved 9.9 MPG under real-world driving conditions, while typical long-haul trucks achieve 5.5 MPG to 6.5 MPG. Doesn’t sound like much, but this improvement is actually huge.

The SuperTruck was created out of a partnership with Cummins and Peterbilt Motors. It was estimated that this fuel economy improvement would save drivers $25,000 annually based on today’s average diesel prices, if they drive 120,000 miles per year. These vehicles also exhibited an even higher freight efficiency improvement of 61% compared to a baseline truck driving the same route. Both fuel efficiency increases exceeded the U.S Department of Energy’s goal of 50%.

The efficiency improvements were achieved using a more efficient engine, a waste heat recovery system, electronics that choose the most efficient routes for drivers, low-rolling-resistance tires, weight reductions, and a more aerodynamic chassis. Sometimes people marginalize the inefficiency of large trucks such as trailers used to transport garbage, food, and other items in large quantities. But everytime gas costs go up, so does the cost of shipping products. These fuel economy improvements can keep shipping costs in check.

Source: Autoblog