Scania Testing Fuel Consumption-Reducing Truck Spoiler

Scania announced that it has debuted tests of a rear air deflector known as a boat-tail, which can cut fuel consumption by up to two percent. The reduction can be translated into an annual saving of 1,200 liters of fuel and three tonnes of CO2 emissions for a truck that runs 125,000 miles (200,000 km) per year.

The boat-tail is installed on a standard three-axle semitrailer for European long-haulage. It adds 30 cm to the vehicle combination length, which is the value of the extra length allowed for a taillift or other loading equipment according to the European Union’s laws.

"The tests are limited to Sweden and Denmark while we await final word on how road and traffic authorities in the Netherlands and Germany view our interpretation and application of the EU directive," said Anders Gustavsson, Managing Director of the Scania Transport Laboratory.

As the figures show, the rear air deflector doesn’t only cut the transport industry’s costs, but also brings an environmental benefit. The Swedish truck producer says that the development is equivalent (in terms of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions reduction) to the results of multiple years of engine and chassis development work.

"This is a solution that does not encroach on cargo space and can also be retrofitted on existing trailers. In light of this, I hope that European trailer manufacturers will find it of interest to begin developing an integrated boat-tail. It involves a very simple technical solution that could quickly help reduce transport costs and environmental impact," Gustavsson concluded.