We are pleased to report the findings of an independent study by Marcus Boyd, School of Engineering, University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol, UK,
“The findings of this report display that AeroHance pods can offer an effective solution to the reduction of aerodynamic drag on Class 8 tractor-trailers, reducing the total drag force by up to 2.12% via the reduction in strength of vortices in the wake, thus leading to an increase in base pressure. At typical highway speeds, this corresponds to a fuel saving of approximately 1.38%….For a 10-vehicle fleet of Class 8 tractor-trailers, this results in an annual saving of around $4136.49 for operations within the United States, or £7235.56 in the United Kingdom, with a reduction in CO2 emissions of roughly 11,005 kg.” Savings are calculated based on driving at 50 mph. Traveling at 65 mph savings increase to 1.65-1.7%, offering annual savings of around $5,000.
” … The pods have been shown to offer a simpler, lighter, less invasive, and cheaper alternative to the conventional drag-reducing devices mentioned in this report.”
“To the author’s knowledge, this report presents the most extensive study of flow control devices of this type applied to heavy vehicles. This assessment is based on the vast number of simulations conducted and the considerable amount of existing literature utilised to support analysis.”
Support by Bob Evans Designs, Inc. was limited to providing Pod geometry, suggested placement and our road test results as publicly posted at AeroHance.com With a per truck investment of <$400, no shell penetration, no downtime for installation or maintenance, AeroHance Pods promise 53′ fleet owners per truck annual ROI of 25%. For shorter <28′ box delivery trucks road testing shows savings 3-5 times that amount. Previously conducted studies conclude the same for passenger vehicles.
