Filed under: Truck, Technology, Work, Diesel



Cummins and Peterbilt have created a new demonstration tractor trailer that boasts a 54 percent increase in fuel economy over current trucks. This particular Class 8 Peterbilt 587 uses a high-efficiency Cummins ISX15 engine and managed to average 9.9 miles per gallon over 11 runs over the 312-mile route between Fort Worth and Vernon, TX with a gross combined weight of 65,000 pounds. For comparison's sake, most modern trucks manage between 5.5 and 6.5 mpg. For most long-haul truck drivers, an increase in fuel economy of 54 percent would equate to a savings of around $25,000 per year at current diesel prices.

The SuperTruck uses light-weight materials, an efficient engine and aerodynamic improvements to net its fuel economy increase. Peterbilt also worked with Eaton to develop a special driveline with fewer parasitic losses and better gearing, and the truck manufacturer says many of the features demonstrated on this particular truck may show up on production models in the near future. Check out the full press release below for more information.Continue reading SuperTruck semi achieves 54-percent increase in fuel economy

SuperTruck semi achieves 54-percent increase in fuel economy originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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