Sophisticated aerodynamics reduce consumption

EcoFLEX: Storm-proof and versatile

The flexible and aerodynamic EcoFLEX trailer from Schmitz Cargobull reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Stefan Husung from H2-Transporte in Gronau explains what else drivers appreciate about it.
 
For decades, aerodynamics in road transport has been primarily a topic for passenger cars. Since the 1980s, most car enthusiasts have been familiar with the Cw value, which describes the wind resistance of an object. But recently, with rising fuel prices and increasing environmental awareness, the importance of the topic has grown in the commercial vehicle sector. 

EcoGeneration trailers

In response, Schmitz Cargobull has developed the aerodynamic EcoGeneration trailers. Andreas Schmitz, CEO of Schmitz Cargobull, explains: “In view of rising diesel prices and the need to reduce carbon emissions, it is becoming increasingly important to reduce consumption with practical measures. With the EcoFIX, EcoVARIOS and EcoFLEX curtainsiders, fuel costs and the CO2 footprint can be significantly reduced. 
“Without the need for expensive and damage-prone add-on parts on the vehicle, the transporter can save money with aerodynamic trailers."

Stefan Husung from H2-Transporte in Gronau, Westphalia, has one of the first EcoFLEXs in his fleet and can confirm what Andreas Schmitz says. "We will certainly have saved the additional costs for the purchase long before the end of its useful life," he says. 
His EcoFLEX is mainly used on the A7 southbound from Hanover and on the A2 towards the Ruhr area, as a parcel service provider as well as for transporting paper and other changing goods. 
The family business Husung founded in 2016, which he runs together with his father Ralf, currently has a total of five tractor units and seven trailers on the road. Six employees ensure that flowers, steel and fresh produce arrive at their destinations in Germany, Benelux, Austria and Switzerland on time and in perfect quality.

EcoFLEX empty and loaded with very good road-holding qualities

The concept of the EcoFLEX is as simple as it is sustainable: the sloping body of the EcoFLEX drastically reduces air resistance. This offers high savings potential, especially for heavy payloads where the height of the cargo space is not fully utilized. If full loading volume is required, the rear of the EcoFLEX can be flexibly raised with the tarpaulin height adapting to the required body height and always compliant with legal height requirements. With the liftable rear of the aerodynamic body, it is possible to react flexibly to transport tasks that arise.
“The EcoFLEX can show its strengths best in bad weather,” says Husung. “When it's really windy, fuel savings of up to six percent are possible and thanks to the aerodynamics, the vehicle is also pressed onto the road in a regular manner, which ensures excellent handling. That completely convinced our drivers," recalls the 36-year-old. 
At first, he says, they were a bit ‘distant’ due to the unfamiliar shape and the additional handling when adjusting the roof. “In the meantime, they affectionately call the EcoFLEX 'our eco-banana'," smiles the father of a three-year-old son. So, it's no wonder that the roof of the EcoFLEX now stays down on 75 per cent of the journeys, helping to save costs and reduce CO2 emissions.
Stefan Husung is so enthusiastic about his first EcoFLEX, he quickly ordered four more which are expected to be added to the H2-Transporte fleet in July.