Aerodynamics Trial Smooths The Way To Greater Fuel Efficiency.

Wincanton is helping to drive the search for greener journeys by taking part in a government-backed research project in aerodynamics.

Data from the Wincanton fleet will be used by experts in computer modelling to explore how vehicle design can cut fuel consumption and reduce emissions.

The project has received £392,240 from the Government’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles’ Innovate UK fund which contributes to a total project spend of £560,342. The project is to be led by TotalSim, experts in Computational Fluid Dynamics in collaboration with fuel saving analytics specialist company Dynamon.

Working together the Companies will develop a web-based software service to identify optimum Aerodynamic Configuration for Transport (ACT) to minimise fuel cost and emissions.

Alongside Wincanton, the ACT project is also supported by Truswell Haulage, Don-Bur Bodies and Trailers, and Hatcher Components.

Dave Rowlands, Technical Services Director at Wincanton, said: “We are delighted to be involved in this government-supported project to explore ways of reducing fuel consumption and emissions through enhanced aerodynamics.

“Wincanton will provide the driving and vehicle specification data that Dynamon and Totalsim will be able to use as they explore innovative vehicle designs using computer modelling.

“Using this approach to aerodynamic research, the partners can make theoretical modifications to the design of bodywork such as the cab roof, trailer or undercarriage, reducing the need for expensive physical engineering”.

“Their aerodynamic analysis will apply to a range of different vehicles, and when married to the operational data gathered from telematics systems will provide indicative real world savings from the various interventions’.

“We are confident that this collaboration can result in real fuel savings across our fleet, and look forward to seeing the results.”