SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — ATDynamics has won the 2011 Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA) for “redefining the shape of the modern tractor-trailer” via its TrailerTail product, the company announced. Presented by California’s Governor, Edmund G. Brown, the GEELA Award is California’s highest environmental honour recognizing innovative businesses that reduce greenhouse gas emissions while providing significant economic benefits.

ATDynamics won for its TrailerTail product, a four-foot aerodynamic fairing designed to streamline airflow at the back of a tractor-trailer. Company officials say the technology can reduce fuel consumption by 6%.

ATDynamics has deployed thousands of TrailerTails to trucking fleets in 2011 and says it is expanding to equip more than 50,000 semi-trailers with TrailerTails by 2014. The company says the technology has the potential to save the freight industry more than $20 billion in diesel fuel costs over the next decade.

“ATDynamics is a true leader by proving that it can support and promote environmental values without sacrificing its business objectives,” said Secretary for Environmental Protection Matt Rodriquez. “ATDynamics understands that going green can be a successful economic strategy that can also lead to sustainable growth and development.” 

“We are honoured to receive one of the most prestigious environmental business awards in the country. In a world of seven billion people and growing energy challenges, we need to reinvent every aspect of our economy, including how we move freight,” said Andrew Smith, founder and CEO of ATDynamics. “We would like to share this award with our customers: the trucking companies who have moved quickly to embrace innovation, greater operating profits and environmental stewardship by changing the shape of their trailers.”