Daimler SuperTruck hits target a year ahead of schedule

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PORTLAND, Ore. — Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) has achieved the goals set out for it during the Department of Energy’s SuperTruck program, a full year ahead of schedule.

The truck maker announced today it has demonstrated a 50% improvement in overall freight efficiency over a 2007 baseline tractor-trailer combination. Daimler also achieved more than 50% engine brake thermal efficiency.

“We’re pleased that we achieved our SuperTruck goals ahead of schedule, however our work isn’t done,” said Derek Rotz, principal investigator for SuperTruck, DTNA “In our final year of the SuperTruck program, we will continue to make enhancements that will not only improve efficiency, but will steer the course for our industry.”

DTNA was one of four major truck OEMs to receive DOE funding to develop a SuperTruck.

According to Rotz, DTNA conducted a series of fuel efficiency, HVAC and thermal tests on a prototype vehicle, including two different on-highway routes in Oregon and Texas, which measured 52% and 61% fuel economy improvement respectively. The combined tractor-trailer weighed in at 1,500 lbs less than the baseline. Plans to complete and test a final demonstration vehicle with additional fuel and weight savings measures are scheduled for late 2014, Daimler announced.

Many of the technologies demonstrated on the SuperTruck are viable today, including an integrated powertrain, 6×2 axle configuration and advanced aerodynamics.

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