DHL Exel Supply Chain Logistics and Don-Bur have designed an air deflector for high-street retailer TK Maxx to use on its double-deck trailers. Dave Bassett, head of engineering at DHL Exel Supply Chain, says most cab-top deflectors are not tall enough to push air over the top of a tall trailer and this was hurting the fuel economy of TK Maxx's trucks.
"Together with Don-Bur we have created this moulding that means the air continues over the top of the truck. Trials have shown that it increases fuel efficiency." DHL will now try to sell the moulding to other customers that use double-deck trailers. "It costs between £600 and £800 and the return on investment for a truck doing 100,000 miles a year will be 12 months," Bassett says.