Daimler Truck North America (DTNA), a subsidiary of Daimler Truck, unveiled the Freightliner SuperTruck II in Las Vegas this week. The SuperTruck program, co-funded by the Department of Energy, aims to reduce emissions from on-road freight transportation and allowed DTNA engineers to explore next-generation technologies for heavy-duty commercial trucks. The goal was to clear the technical pathway for their potential integration into series production.
The engineers identified several areas for technology innovation including improved tractor aerodynamics, low-rolling resistance tires, powertrain improvements, and energy management with advanced technologies. Building on the success of SuperTruck I, introduced by DTNA in 2015, SuperTruck II exceeded expectations in aerodynamics, tires, powertrain, and energy management, doubling the freight efficiency of the base vehicle from the start of the SuperTruck program.
To achieve improved aerodynamics, the engineers focused on redefining the existing shape of the market-leading Cascadia, rather than drastically changing its structure. The redesigned hood, bumper, and chassis fairing, combined with a seamless and clean design of the grille, air intakes, and doors, allow air to flow undisturbed around the truck. The active side extenders and roof spoiler system reduce the trailer gap by up to 4 inches at highway speeds, while the enhanced Aerodynamic Height Control lowers the truck just inches off the ground for further aerodynamic benefits. The elimination of exterior mirrors and integration of a mirrorless camera system also significantly reduced aerodynamic drag.
SuperTruck II features the most efficient powertrain Freightliner has ever integrated into a truck, resulting in a 5.7% fuel consumption reduction over SuperTruck I. The non-certified prototype Detroit 13-liter engine features two-stage turbocharging and interstage cooling, as well as a 13-speed overdrive transmission. The split cooling system, high-temperature and low-temperature cooling circuits, two-stage turbocharging, and Exhaust Gas Recirculation cooling on the engine contribute to further efficiency gains and enable more aggressive downspeeding. The smart engine lubrication circuit minimizes internal pumping losses, reducing engine parasitics by actively proportioning flow to the most sensitive components.
The adaptive tandem axles allow increased torque from the fuel-efficient powertrains and automatically shift from 6×4 to 6×2 at highway speeds, providing maneuverability benefits at low speeds. DTNA collaborated with SuperTruck I partner Michelin on the development of new tires specifically designed for adaptive tandem axles, reducing vehicle energy consumption and maintenance downtime due to minimized wear and tear on the tires. The tires also reduce the friction on the road, resulting in less fuel needed to maintain truck speed and a 12% reduction in tractor rolling resistance over SuperTruck I.
SuperTruck II features a 48-volt electrical system with lithium-ion batteries, enabling a new electric steering system that adjusts demand as needed, whether the operator is maneuvering at low speed or driving at highway speeds. The intelligent EcoSail feature can turn the engine off when drive power is not needed, and the new electric air conditioning system consumes 50% less energy than SuperTruck I while operating seamlessly while the engine is turned off. The new 48-volt starter starts the engine with more power and speed, and the 48-volt electrical system operates the hoteling features without the engine running while providing 12-volt power for standard cab items.
DTNA has also been awarded a grant for SuperTruck III to develop a hydrogen fuel cell electric tractor that exceeds heavy-duty long-haul sleeper performance, efficiency, and range requirements without compromising payload. The designs for SuperTruck III are planned to be revealed by 2027. DTNA’s continued involvement in the SuperTruck program aligns with its relentless pursuit of improved customer and driver experiences, as well as increased freight efficiency and resource conservation.
#SuperTruckII #EfficientTransportation #InnovativeTechnology
Get More Great Car Videos – Subscribe: https://goo.gl/BSIaFc
