The Department of Energy issued a tall order to large truck makers: create a big rig that improves fuel economy by 50 percent, but one company, Freightliner, managed to exceed expectations.
After five years and $115 million, Frieghtliner’s answer to the challenge is the Super Truck.
On a 312 mile road test in Texas, the Super truck hauled 65,000 pounds and returned with 12.2 mpg, 115 percent than the average truck.
The truck runs on a hybrid fuel source, 11-liter diesel engine paired with an electric motor. The majority of the accessories on the vehicle are battery powered as opposed to belts attached to the engine which adds drag to the engine.
The roof of the trailer is fitted with solar panel and is capable of completely regulating climate control on a sunny day. It has a heat waste recovery system where the exhaust works like a power plant and generates electricity by boiling water.
The transmission is computer controlled and hooked to the navigation system, allowing it to “plans shifts ahead of changes in terrain”.
The outer design of the truck also plays a key role in the fuel-efficient, power-saving vehicle. The aerodynamic frame is made with new light-weight materials, the windshield is laid back, wheels skirted, height-adjustable suspension, and the grill automatically opens when the engine is in need of cooling.
The estimated amount of fuel saved per year for the Super Truck is at 10,000 gallons, which is at $28,000, though it’s only a concept and not out for production. However, Freightliner has already integrated several of the Super Truck’s features into their current lineup.
