Over 6% saving
Trucks simply guzzle fuel because of their non-efficient aerodynamics. Ephicas creates innovative solutions for trailers, which contribute to fuel savings and a better environment. The operational tests showed 1.65 litre of fuel was saved per 100 km, on a routing over the highway. Furthermore, the operational functionality of the EcoTail was tested. The EcoTail did not pose the driver any problems nor caused it any delay while docking, loading or delivering. A simple adjustment to the door hinges prevents that the doors, which become slightly heavier, suddenly open quite abruptly.
Irma Blanke, Director Operations & Services TNT Express Benelux: “Savings on the fuel cost is an interesting business case, but also helps us to reach our goal of decreasing the CO2 emissions of our operations.”

Not yet on the road
Ephicas had to request permission from the ‘Dienst Wegverkeer’ (RDW) to be able to run the TNT Express pilot, since in The Netherlands the maximum length of a truck is legally regulated. A truck with trailer can be no longer than 16.5 m, for instance. The EcoTail however sticks out almost 1.5 m and surpasses the maximum length. After safety tests proved that road users were not in danger, the RDW allowed a temporary exemption, also since these tests comply with the Transport White Paper targets to reduce CO2 emissions by 60%. Gandert Van Raemdonck of Ephicas explains about the EcoTail use on the road: “We are very happy with the tests and the collaboration with the RDW and TNT Express. During the operational tests, the driver was not hindered at all, nor delayed because of the EcoTail. The results prove that a simple innovation can significantly reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.”

The next step will be to extend the Ecotail test to multiple vehicles, with domestic and international destinations. Ephicas, together with partner PART (Platform for Aerodynamic Road Transport), is also in talks with policy makers in Brussels to adjust regulations regarding maximum vehicle length towards the use of aerodynamic tools.

foto: Jorrit Lousberg /

foto: Jorrit Lousberg /

Aerodynamics and design united into 1 trailer

During an impressive event with over 1000 attendants, trailer manufacturer STAS has introduced its latest creation, the “V-Streamline II”. This concept trailer is characterized by a unique design which is the result of advanced R&D into optimized aerodynamics, combined with a continuous effort to realize an appealing shape.
The design responds to the latest trends in the world of freight transport. First, an improved aerodynamic shape enables a significant fuel saving. Second, STAS realized that more and more transport companies value the importance of operating a modern fleet of vehicles. Combining the traditional STAS quality with an attractive shape, the V-Streamline II has all it takes to mark the difference for any transport company.
A further simplification of the functionality in order to enhance the user-friendliness for the driver was taken as a basic design condition. Next to that, the new trailer of course also responds to the highest safety standards.
The aerodynamic shape of the V-Streamline II is however the most appealing feature. It is based on 4 structural improvements: the aerodynamic shape of the upper beams reflecting the ideal shape of a water drop, the closed front to deflect the wind from the vehicle body, the flaps at the backside to break the vacuum that is ‘pulling back’ the vehicle and finally also the integration of Ephicas SideWing.
Computer simulations on the new concept project that the improved aerodynamic features of the V-Streamline II will enable a high fuel saving. Further road tests are planned to officially register and validate the saving potential, after the first production vehicles will be released early 2012.

link to article

article in dutch on TTM