A new trailer fairing package is now available through Carrier Transicold’s North American dealership network – fairings designed in part to help fleets comply with new California regulations mandating fuel economy improvements for 53-foot dry vans and reefers.
Developed by Freight Wing, Inc., the new AeroFlex trailer side fairings distributed through Carrier’s dealer network have demonstrated up to a 7.5% improved fuel economy for tractor-trailers, based on independent tests verified against the SAE/TMC J1321 Type II test procedure, according to Freight Wing.
Available for standard dray vans as well as refrigerated trailers, the patent-pending AeroFlex fairings are made of impact-resistant, flexible TPO (thermoplastic olefin) plastic that maintains a good appearance over the long haul, said Jason Forman, senior product development manager for Carrier Transicold’s performance parts group.
The AeroFlex material is UV stabilized for prolonged outdoor use, while its flexibility, coupled with a 180-degree top hinge, allows these low-clearance fairings to “flex” and thus withstand both side and bottom impacts. As a result, Carrier is offering a three-year limited warranty for the AeroFlex product line.
Weighing only 160 pounds, Forman said AeroFlex fairings can be installed in a five-degree angled configuration, with such as “wedge” shape more efficiently diverting airflow along the side of the trailer, away from drag-inducing rear wheels, axle components and cross members. Designed for ease of installation, the fairings can easily be modified to accommodate under-trailer fuel tanks in refrigerated trailer installations.
“These [fairings] are an important consideration for fleets and owner-operators who want that achieve compliance with the EPA’s [Environmental Protection Agency’s] SmartWay program,” Forman added.
Although SmartWay compliance is voluntary, California’s Heavy-Duty Vehicle Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Regulation mandates said compliance for all 53-foot trailers used within its borders; a regulation that went effect Jan. 1 this year.
