SuperTruck II is upon us. In the first SuperTruck program, the DOE set a goal of 50% increase of efficiency in ton-mile-per-gallon basis. The three teams involved achieved between 50 and 115% increases. This time around the DOE set a more challenging 100% goal in increased efficiency compared to a 2009 baseline.
Last time around teams achieved their goals by focusing on “…aerodynamics packages, low rolling resistance tires, engine and waste heat recovery, and highly efficient combustion engines.” Teams will probably come back to the same areas of focus as last time but will also look in unexpected areas.
It will be interesting to watch to see how the truck manufacturers achieve these next set of goals.
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