Wabash National developed the DuraPlate AeroSkirt in 2009 to address customers’ needs for improved fuel economy. The innovative aerodynamic solution improves fuel economy by up to 6 percent and provides a low total cost of ownership for fleet owners.

“This week our company reached a noteworthy milestone,” said James Scarcelli, vice president and general manager, Wabash Composites. “Achieving this milestone in fewer than five years is further evidence of our leadership in trailer aerodynamics and reflects how this expertise translates into aerodynamic products that provide the greatest combination of durability and fuel efficiency.”

The EPA SmartWay approved DuraPlate AeroSkirt is the most durable aerodynamic solution for over-the-road trailers. Its proven structural composite material, DuraPlate, consists of two external steel skins thermally bonded to a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) core, for superior strength that resists damage. A proprietary spring-bracket design allows for inboard and outboard deflection, to further resist potential impact damage, leading to longer service life.

The DuraPlate AeroSkirt, originally designed for truckload applications, is also available for less-than-truckload and tank applications. In field tests, it reduced fuel consumption up to 5 percent in less-than-truckload carriers and up to 7 percent in tank trailers.

About Wabash Composites

Wabash Composites brings creativity, collaboration, and innovation to new solutions through a discovery-driven approach that capitalizes on Wabash National’s engineering expertise and technology. The business develops new products and researches markets that can benefit from the proven performance of its DuraPlate composite panels, including aerodynamic truck accessories, portable storage units, temporary shelters and more.