European truck aerodynamics - A comparison between conventional and coe truck aerodynamics and a look into future trends and possibilities

Abstract

The aerodynamic situation for trucks on the European market differs from that in North America on a number of points. Perhaps the most significant difference is that in Europe trucks are of the CoE configuration (Cab over Engine) and in North America trucks are of the conventional type with a hood. Another major difference is that trucks in Europe are speed limited to 90 km/h (56 mph) which of course means that aerodynamics as a whole has less of an impact there. These differences are primarily dictated by different legislations, which in turn have a lot of different side effects. This paper will high-light some of the differences and their impact on aerodynamics, as well as taking a look at possible future ideas such as: extended front or short nose, ride height adjustments, convoy driving, etc. © 2009 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.