5 reasons to consider bottom shelf systems vs. traditional side skirts

SmartTruck has a patented under-tray aerodynamic system that provides a unique alternative to trailer side skirts. Designed to reduce the size of the heavy duty wake, these solutions provide the greatest amount of drag reduction and fuel savings of an aerodynamic towing device. The incoming airflow under the trailer is compressed and accelerated through the lower tray components, pulling the high-energy airflow from above the trailer into the wake of the trailer.

Here are five reasons to consider UnderTrays vs Side Skirts for your next trailer:

1. Greater fuel efficiency

With verified fuel savings from the US EPA’s SmartWay Transportation Association, even SmartTruck’s base unit, the UT-1 system, provides a 5.5% MPG improvement at highway speeds. This translates to 7 gallons of fuel saved for every 1000 miles. For those willing to invest a little more, the UT-6 system with side fairings provides up to a 10% MPG improvement or 12.5 gallons saved per 1000 miles.

With the fuel savings provided with either system, most owner-operators or fleets will recoup their investment in the first year!

2. Less maintenance than traditional skirts

The under-tray system installs within your trailer footprint high off the ground to avoid contact with steep loading docks or other obstacles. Made of durable polyethylene plastic, it is suitable for all types of weather. While with a blowout, skirts can often be damaged, ripped, or completely destroyed, these systems are designed to last as long as your trailer.

3. Easier accessibility

With traditional skirts, the driver loses access to a trailer’s landing gear where spare tires and other parts can be stored. With the unique design of the intelligent systems under the truck bed, the driver now has full access to the space under his trailer.

4. A bolder look

Most truck drivers take pride in their equipment. The aerodynamic design of the lower deck systems provides a sleeker, bolder look than traditional side skirts, which typically get muddy, rusted or damaged by flying rocks and debris while on the road. As SmartTruck’s slogan shows, they are “Changing the way of trucks.”

5. CARB compliant towing system

To operate in California, a fleet is required to meet CARB requirements for trailers. Whether you decide to go traditional skirts or move to a more modern solution like the SmartTruck bottom spokes, a fuel efficiency towing system will be required to avoid potentially catastrophic fines. Prime Time Equipment can help your fleet meet California CARB requirements.