Improving the aerodynamic efficiency of heavy duty vehicles: wind tunnel test results of trailer-based drag-reduction technologies

Through its ecoTECHNOLOGY for Vehicles program, Transport Canada commissioned the National Research Council Canada (NRC) to investigate the aerodynamic improvements possible with current and emerging drag reduction technologies for heavy-duty vehicles, with the intent of guiding future implementation and regulation of such technologies for Canada\u2019s transportation industry. A wind-tunnel test campaign was undertaken in the NRC 9 m Wind Tunnel to evaluate the aerodynamic performance of various drag reduction concepts, with an emphasis on those for trailers, using a 30% scale model of modern tractor-trailer combinations. Project stakeholders also include Environment Canada\u2019s Transportation Division.Peer reviewed: NoNRC publication: Ye