Fully in the Flow: Hegelmann Reduces Fuel Consumption through Aero Packages

Reducing air resistance saves up to 1.8 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers, Hegelmann reports. With an average mileage of 120,000 kilometers per year, this results in a saving of over 2,000 liters per year for each equipped vehicle. The project is part of a sustainable corporate strategy with which Hegelmann aims to achieve CO2 neutrality by 2035.

"The issue of sustainability is more important than ever. As a logistics company, we have a particular responsibility to reduce our emissions," explains Andreas Schmidt, CEO of Hegelmann Express GmbH.

The Aerodynamic Packages from Betterflow are intended to help. They include various components that are attached to the trailer to reduce the air resistance of the trucks. Initially, five refrigerated trailers will be equipped with the systems. They receive the all-around package consisting of the underbody membrane (Low Flow), an underbody protection cladding (Low Flow Shape), a front wing for the trailer's front wall (High Flow), and the automatic rear wing system (Rear Flow). The technology is primarily used in long-distance transport to save as much CO2 as possible.

Saving almost two liters per 100 kilometers

The Low Flow component extends almost over the entire underbody. Holders at the chassis rear and at the front support legs stretch a membrane into a taut, smooth form, optimizing the underbody flow. In addition, the Low Flow Shape components clad the rear underbody protection. The High Flow system ensures the optimal air flow in the rear area. It coordinates the underbody and roof flow. Strong turbulences in the rear area are reduced by the fully automatic rear wing system Rear Flow, which automatically opens at a speed of 60 kilometers per hour. As a result, an average of 1.8 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers should be saved.