TNT have unleashed 86 Cartwright Cheetah Aerodynamic trailer systems into their fleet
Cartwright developed the Cheetah Aero System in conjunction with TNT Express, The Department of Energy and the Transport Research Laboratory.
Through extensive trials over 12 months with trailer and tractor, the system led to fuel savings of 16 pct – with a 13 tonne reduction in annual carbon emissions based on 124,000 miles per annum.
The Cheetah’s cab roof fairing, cab extensions, trailer skirts and rear roof scoop, were wind tunnel tested. They showed a 42 pct total reduction in drag coefficient.
TNT has been so impressed by the Cheetah Aero System that it has taken delivery of 86 13.6 metre GRP van trailers that feature it and plan further orders for 2008.
TNT’s National Engineering Manager Steve Davis said: “We have found that this Aero System will play a huge role in the future in reducing our carbon footprint and fuel consumption – and that is something backed up by the official Department of Energy test trials.
Steven Cartwright, Director of The Cartwright Group, said that road trial tests and track tests at MIRA (Motor Industry Research Association) are booked with other customers eager to see what results the aerodynamic system will have on their own fleet. He added that the Cheetah would also be on show at this year’s CV Show.
The Cheetah features specially-designed cab roof fairing and side collars which work together with the trailer’s front aerodynamic aluminium blimp, aerodynamic rear roof scoop, a large radius skirt, tapered rear skirt quarter panels and a circular rear under-run bar and open rear chassis design. An additional key feature that enhances the TNT trailer, is the tapered body. Due to the nature of the load, Cartwright were able to taper the body from bottom to top inwards, enhancing the aerodynamic effect, in line with the cab aerodynamic components.
