The SuperTruck II is Freightliner’s most aerodynamic truck ever, thus the emphasis on efficiency is instantly clear. The model’s new front end was “sculpted by air,” and it is based on the Cascadia.
With the SuperTruck II, which continues the legacy of the first SuperTruck and was partially supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, Freightliner is demonstrating this point.
In addition to a redesigned hood, updated grille, streamlined doorways, and new chassis fairings, the model boasts an aerodynamic frontal bumper with dynamic lines and new intakes. Digital side mirrors were also given a permit to be used by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and Freightliner noted that they have shown great promise in enhancing visibility and safety, which “supports advocacy for long term regulatory changes that would allow the broad acceptance of this advanced technology by manufacturers.”
The SuperTruck II includes active aerodynamics that assist in minimizing drag, but that is just part of the tale. Side adapters and a roof spoiler expand as the truck reaches top speed to reduce the space between the cab and trailer. The car is lowered such that it sits “just inches above the ground for extra aerodynamic gains” according to the model’s Aerodynamic Height Control system.
There were additional improvements that might be made, so engineers and designers didn’t merely concentrate on aerodynamic efficiency. One of the biggest is found beneath the hood, where the SuperTruck II is outfitted with the most effective powertrain a Freightliner has ever had.
The model comes with a 13-speed transmission and a 13-liter Detroit turbodiesel engine, though the manufacturer didn’t provide many other details. The engine’s exhaust gas recirculation cooling and two-stage turbocharging are both included in the powertrain’s split cooling system, which also includes high temperature as well as low temperature cooling circuits.
Smart lubrication and adaptable tandem axles, which switch from 64 to 62 automatically at highway speeds, are other highlights. The model also has specially designed Michelin low rolling resistance tyres, as well as a lithium-ion battery-powered 48-volt electrical system. With the latter, a brand-new electric drive system and an EcoSail function that can shut off the engine when not required could be added.
In comparison to SuperTruck I, aerodynamic drag was decreased by more than 12% as a result of the numerous additional features and enhancements. Moreover, there was a 12 percent decrease in tractor rolling resistance and a 5.7 percent decrease in fuel usage.
Freightliner emphasised that while SuperTruck II is primarily a technology demonstrator, some of its features may eventually be put into production. Moreover, SuperTruck III, a hydrogen fuel cell electric tractor that “exceeds heavy-duty long-haul sleeper efficiency, economy, and range criteria without compromising payload,” was mentioned by Daimler Truck North America as being on the horizon.
ALSO READ THIS : 2024 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid is Here for the First Time.