ATDynamics has partnered with the Mexican firm Andromeda Business Solutions S.A. de C.V. to distribute ATDynamics’ TrailerTail technology in Mexico – one of several international introductions for TrailerTail technology in 2013.
“Over-dependence on fossil fuels is a global challenge,” said Andrew Smith, CEO of ATDynamics. “We are proud of our new partnership with Andromeda to supply TrailerTail technology to trucking fleets throughout Mexico. TrailerTails will immediately enhance the aerodynamics and fuel economy of the estimated 200,000 semi-trailers in Mexico, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fuel costs for the country.”
ATDynamics’ patent-protected TrailerTail product line is comprised of lightweight, thermoplastic composite fairings installed at the back of tractor-trailers to streamline airflow behind the trailer, reducing aerodynamic drag and fuel consumption by 6.6 percent at 65 mph.
“Mexican trucking companies understand that better fuel economy is critical to business competitiveness,” said Captain Fausto Velazquez, President of Andromeda Business Solutions. “The Mexican government has been extremely supportive of fuel efficiency technologies that reduce the carbon emissions, fuel consumption and operating costs of our freight transportation industry.”
In collaboration with the US EPA, the Mexican government launched the “Transporte Limpio” or “Clean Transportation” program in 2011, which was modeled after the US EPA’s SmartWay program. Mexico’s Transporte Limpio program currently has over 70 partners, and works to educate the industry on SmartWay technologies and operational best practices. TrailerTail is a US EPA SmartWay verified technology and is legal in Mexico on 48-foot long trailers. The Mexican transport authority is currently reviewing its road regulations to exempt TrailerTails from the overall length measurement when installed on standard 53-foot trailers.
“Mr. Velazquez has worked closely with Transporte Limpio, the Mexican government and the Mexican transportation industry to bring TrailerTail technology to Mexico,” said Devin Koch, ATDynamics Vice President of International Sales. “TrailerTail technology will improve the profitability and competitiveness of the Mexican trucking industry while also improving vehicle and public safety.”
Using a patented origami folding design, TrailerTails collapse automatically out of the way when a driver opens the rear doors of a semi-trailer to access cargo. The devices can be installed by two people in less than one hour and every TrailerTail installed offsets approximately the equivalent fuel consumption of removing one passenger vehicle from the road. The devices enhance vehicle safety by improving vehicle stability in high winds and reducing spray in wet weather.