When I discuss aerodynamics, I usually talk about my fuel economy. But there are other benefits to having an aerodynamic truck and trailer. Safety is an important factor as well.
During windy conditions, an aerodynamic truck and trailer provide less of an opportunity for the offending air currents to disrupt your directional stability. Also, the amount of road spray is dramatically reduced when compared to a traditional tractor-trailer, leading to a much more unobstructed view of the traffic conditions in proximity to my truck and trailer.
Everything from the aerodynamic profile of the Cascadia, the side skirts on the tractor and trailer, the Nose Cone, wheel covers, flow through mud flaps, and the trailer tail, all work together to channel the air smoothly from the top, bottom, and sides of the unit. This makes it much easier to see cars and other vehicles in a rainstorm. In the winter months, another benefit has been a market reduction of snow build-up, particularly under the trailer and above my trailer tandems. I’ve found it easy to maintain the cleanliness of the truck and trailer due to fewer nooks and crannies. This helps to add a clean image of the truck for shippers, consignees, and the general public.
As over-the-road movers and shakers, we encounter roads that go uphill and downhill, we take necessary detours, we hit light traffic and dense traffic, and we engage in many other battles such as with brokers, weather, and government regulations. With so many other issues to deal with in the trucking industry, picking a fight with the air is not a wise battle to engage in.