Mercedes-Benz Trucks & Krone: new concept for lower consumption

Vehicle & Technology

Down with consumption!

Up to 20 per cent less fuel and CO₂: the highly efficient tractor-semitrailer rig from Mercedes-Benz Trucks and Krone is available as of right now.

Improved aerodynamics. Panels made from impact-resistant plastic cover the sides and trailer axles.
Improved aerodynamics. Panels made from impact-resistant plastic cover the sides and trailer axles.
The tail wing in four sections additionally lowers wind resistance.
The tail wing in four sections additionally lowers wind resistance.

The development efforts of Mercedes-Benz Trucks and trailer manufacturer Krone to reduce CO₂ emissions by taking an integrated approach are paying dividends: at the IAA 2016, they presented an Actros featuring an OM 471 in-line six-cylinder engine of the second generation, Efficiency Package, which incorporates the optimised Predictive Powertrain Control system, for example, and running on Label A low-resistance tyres. Combined with the new Krone “Profi Liner Efficiency” trailer with improved aerodynamics, field testing showed that the rig can achieve fuel and CO₂ reductions of up to 20 per cent compared with earlier rig combinations. The comparison was based on a standard tractor-semitrailer rig of 2014. The five transport companies Große-Vehne, Elflein, Rhenus, Seifert and Wiedmann & Winz tested the semi-trailers under normal operating conditions over distances of more than 150,000 kilometr es.



Their conclusion: they are not only economical; they are also absolutely capable of operating in the real world. In developing the trailer, Krone managed to cut unit costs using simple, robust component designs. Made from impact-resistant plastic, they are highly resilient. Regulatory authorities have issued all necessary permits for the deployment of the tail wing. The new trailer can be ordered with immediate effect. The savings in terms of fuel consumption mean that the additional cost will be amortised after only one-and-a-half years.



Photos: Daimler

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