Latest Aerodynamic Product Enables Trailer Manufacturers and Fleets in Europe to Improve Fuel Economy and Operational Efficiency
WABCO Holdings Inc. (NYSE:WBC), a leading global supplier of technologies to improve the safety and efficiency of commercial vehicles, debuted its innovative OptiFlow™ Tail solution today at IAA Commercial Vehicles 2014 in Hanover, Germany. WABCO’s proven aerodynamic product helps to improve the fuel economy and operational efficiency of trailers throughout Europe.
WABCO’s new OptiFlow Tail features an innovative modular design of four folding panels that significantly improves air flow at the trailer’s rear. Specifically engineered for trailers in Europe, OptiFlow Tail’s durable panels are mounted directly on the trailer’s swing doors, allowing for the doors to fully open. OptiFlow Tail’s modular system also utilizes a fast and easy-to-use folding and unfolding mechanism. WABCO’s latest aerodynamic product will be available for new trailers and as a retrofit option for trailers already in operation.
“Today’s launch of OptiFlow Tail demonstrates our continued technology leadership to improve the efficiency of trailers for manufacturers, fleet operators and transport companies throughout Europe,” said Nick Rens, President, Trailer Systems, Aftermarket and Off-Highway Division. “Proven on the test track, OptiFlow Tail helps to increase the fuel economy of tractor-trailer combinations by up to 3.5 percent at highway speeds.”
OptiFlow Tail further expands the company’s portfolio of efficiency-enhancing products for tractor-trailer combinations. It builds on the gained experience through WABCO’s OptiFlow SideWings, a unique patented flow-conductor that is specially contoured to optimize the airflow around and underneath the trailer, reducing air resistance. Made of robust yet lightweight material, OptiFlow SideWings has proven on test tracks and on the road to increase fuel economy by up to 5 percent at highway speeds.
Installing both OptiFlow Tail and SideWings on tractor-trailer combinations, WABCO anticipates potential fuel savings by up to 7 percent at highway speeds. Both aerodynamic OptiFlow products are part of the company’s award-winning Intelligent Trailer Program.
About WABCO
WABCO (NYSE: WBC) is a leading global supplier of technologies and control systems for the safety and efficiency of commercial 
vehicles. Founded nearly 150 years ago, WABCO continues to pioneer breakthrough electronic, mechanical and mechatronic technologies for braking, stability and transmission automation systems supplied to the world’s leading commercial truck, bus and trailer manufacturers. With sales of $2.7 billion in 2013, WABCO is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium. For more information, visit www.wabco-auto.com