FlowBelow Aero Inc announced recently that it has partnered with Indian River Transport, the largest liquid bulk food grade tank carrier in North America, to equip the tank truck carrier’s tractors with FlowBelow’s new fuel saving tractor-mounted AeroKit system for tank truck applications.
The FlowBelow Tank Truck AeroKit includes quick-release wheel covers and a pair of tandem fairings installed on the tractor that work together as a complete aerodynamic system to address the complex airflow around the exposed rear wheels of the tractor. The patented AeroKit system reduces aerodynamic drag and improves fuel efficiency of the tractor by 2.23%, according to FlowBelow officials.
“We tested the AeroKit in our fleet for over seven months, starting in January specifically to test the product’s winter durability and performance,” said Mark Gressett, safety director at Indian River Transport. “There are limited options for improving the aerodynamic performance of a tank trailer, so we were very interested in the AeroKit as a tractor-mounted aerodynamic system. We were impressed with the product’s durability, ease of use, fuel efficiency performance of over 3%, and investment payback in less than one year.”
Indian River Transport operates 650 trucks and 800 foodgrade tank trailers across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The company primarily hauls fruit juice and dairy products for well-known household food brands.
“Beyond ordering the most aerodynamic and fuel efficient tractors from the OEMs and controlling driver behavior, routes and fuel stops there are few options to increase the overall fuel efficiency of a tanker fleet,” said Josh Butler, founder and chief executive officer of FlowBelow. “We are pleased that our Tank Truck AeroKit can play a key role in helping these specialized fleets improve their fuel efficiency and environmental impact.”