Starship Draws on Supplier’s Aerodynamics Know-How

Röchling Automotive is using its active aerodynamics expertise to help maximize heavy trucks’ fuel efficiency.

As part of the Starship Initiative, a collaborative project led by Shell Lubricants and AirFlow Truck Co., Röchling is supplying its active grille shutter (AGS) system to a next-generation concept truck called the Starship.

“The project’s mission is to combine the best technologies available to create a hyper-efficient class 8 truck to carry goods on a cross-country journey using the smallest amount of energy possible as well as further the conversation around reducing energy demand in freight transport,” Troy, MI-based Röchling Automotive says in a news release.

Launched earlier this year, the Starship, equipped with Röchling’s AGS system, will benefit from enhanced aerodynamic performance, the supplier says.

The intelligent, actively controllable system is said to reduce aerodynamic drag, improve fuel efficiency and lower emissions in passenger vehicles.

By closing the grille vanes when radiator cooling is not needed, the AGS system optimizes airflow around the vehicle, increases engine warming time and reduces noise, especially during cold starts. On a passenger vehicle, this can reduce drag a maximum of 25 aerodynamic points, the equivalent to an emissions savings of up to 3 gm/CO2 per kilometer, the supplier says.

To make its products viable for use on the Starship, Röchling had to custom-fit the aerodynamic solution for the truck. The company supplies nearly 6 million AGS assemblies to the global passenger vehicle market annually.

Beyond contributing its enhanced aerodynamic technology to the Starship, Röchling also will participate in events on the truck’s cross-country tour.