Author: EUCAR May 29, 2017 Share this:

In the TRANSFORMERS project (Configurable and Adaptable Trucks and Trailers for Optimal Transport Efficiency), EUCAR members developed a solution to achieve 25% energy efficiency per tonne kilometres in a real-world application. This was achieved by combining in a modular approach three concepts:

• Rightsizing by means of hybridization,
• truck engine downsizing and
• trailer design addressing aerodynamics and load efficiency improvements.

Since September 2013 the TRANSFORMERS project successfully developed an innovative tractor-semitrailer and a truck-trailer. The solutions will enable up to 8 % energy saving per tonne kilometre in long haulage and up to 12 % for distribution traffic. Further TRANSFORMERS achievements:

• Pre-standard framework for the electric Hybrid-on-Demand driveline concept;
• Demonstrator of three different vehicle combinations;
• Toolboxes with aerodynamic devices/technologies, and another one with load – and loading efficiency devices/technologies;
  • Both include guidelines for selecting options, and demonstrate devices as part of the total vehicle demonstrations;
• Compliance with infrastructure for vehicle combination concepts composed of truck-trailer combinations.

TRANSFORMERS will hold its final conference on 29 June 2017 in Gothenburg. To join the event please visit the TRANSFORMERS website.

Project facts: