[VAL] aerodynamic fuel savings

[jon fitz <fitzjo1@xxxxxxxxx>]

Engineers at Georgia Tech studied methods for
improving the fuel efficiencly of full-size
tractor-trailers.  They concluded that rounded corners
could indeed be helpful in this regard:

"The aerodynamic improvements produced by geometry
changes, which generate fuel savings of as much as
6-7%, involve rounding aft trailer corners, installing
fairings, and making other changes that smooth air
flow over the boxy trailers."

"The improvements could also enhance braking and
directional stability."

Now I know that most of you are probably saying "duh!"
right about now.  But, the next time you want to
debate the point with the owner of SOB, you'll have
the science to back it up. ;)

Here's a link to the article for the technology-minded
among us.

http://www.isa.org/Content/ContentGroups/News/20051/January23/Trucks_get_fuel_efficiency_boost.htm