Tractor Gap Devices
The gap between the tractor and trailer has long been a point of known challenges for optimizing aerodynamics. New solutions are now appearing in the marketplace that are significantly different from past ideas.
Tractor-to-trailer gap closure efforts started with cab extenders, sleeper extenders and most recently added sleeper top extenders to the cab. Devices for the front of the trailer have been around for years. Recently new devices have entered the market to deploy at speed to close the gap and then retract as vehicle speed decreases.
Benefits
Fuel Economy
Early feedback shows that savings could be as high as 4 to 5% depending on your equipment, weather conditions, time spent deployed and other factors.
Reduced Emissions & Wear
Less fuel burned means less engine emissions and less engine wear.
Tractor/Trailer Ratio
With many fleets having 3 or more trailers for every tractor, implementing solutions on the tractor are more advantageous and affordable than adding devices to the trailers.
Vehicle Operation
Handling and steering become easier if there is no wind buffeting of the trailer.
Cab Extender Life
Use of these systems may allow fleet to run shorter extenders and avoid the cost of damaged extenders.
Challenges
Weight
These systems add at least a minor amount of weight to the vehicle.
Cost
The system adds electronic controls in addition to the physical components.
Damage Potential
It isn’t hard to find a tractor with damaged cab extenders so protecting these devices from damage is a challenge unless designed to stay out of the trailer swing path.