After their engineering investments helped clear the 2010 EPA emissions hurdle, truck manufacturers can now pour their R and D dollars into a familiar, yet timely project: improving fuel economy. And, with projections that this year’s diesel cost per gallon could hover around the $3 mark, the focus couldn’t come at a more needed time. Look for more aerodynamic designs, components that offer improved fuel efficiency and efforts to reduce vehicle weight as strategies to boost fuel economy.

Truck OEMs Look to Boost Fuel Economy with Aerodynamic Designs, Lighter Weight

With the last stage in emission regulations for commercial vehicles now complete, truck OEMs and engine makers are turning their engineering sights back on a familiar topic: improving fuel economy.

“Over the last decade, especially in the on-highway truck market, it’s been all about who can meet emission [rules] best,” said Richard Freeland, the new president of Cummins Inc.’s truck engine division, during a news conference at last week’s Mid America Trucking Show.

“But I think as you look out over the next decade, it’s all about fuel economy,” he continued. “I think that’s the new battleground; who can deliver the best fuel economy.”

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