• PrimeErective@startrek.website
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    77
    arrow-down
    1
    ·
    4 months ago

    Unfortunately, to get the benefit of the slip steam, you gotta be pretty close to the back of the truck. If you have space for good reaction time, you’re probably too far back

    • Septimaeus@infosec.pub
      link
      fedilink
      arrow-up
      27
      arrow-down
      1
      ·
      4 months ago

      This is correct, especially at lower speeds. Greater fuel efficiency would come from lower wind and drivetrain resistance and use of a more efficient range of the motor’s powerband.

      Most vehicles are geared for optimal speed to fuel consumption around 55-65 mph (90-100 kph) not 70+ mph (110+ kph). So just going a bit under the speed limit can have a significant impact on fuel consumption.

      • pearsaltchocolatebar@discuss.online
        link
        fedilink
        arrow-up
        9
        arrow-down
        2
        ·
        4 months ago

        Also, truckers drive efficiently, so just following what they do will save gas.

        But yeah, I don’t go over 65mph and I end up with 7-10mpg over my highway rating.

    • psud@aussie.zone
      link
      fedilink
      arrow-up
      1
      ·
      4 months ago

      This has been tested. You still get a reasonable benefit 3 seconds behind; you get practically nothing 6 seconds behind