Utility’s Side Skirt

Setting the Standard that Exceeds Current Environmental Requirements

Optimizing fuel efficiency is a win-win for business and the environment. Reducing aerodynamic drag reduces fuel use, lowering both fuel costs and greenhouse gas emissions. The Utility Side Skirt has earned preliminary approval from the EPA for use as an aerodynamic device on dry van and refrigerated trailers in order to meet Greenhouse Gas-Phase 2 (GHG2) regulations.

As a family-run business, sustainability is a priority. Everything we can do to make our trailers more aerodynamic benefits our environment and our customers,” said Jeffrey Bennett, Vice President, Engineering & Product Development for Utility. “We are proud that our Utility Side Skirt qualifies at the GHG2 BIN III Level, which is a standard that exceeds the current SmartWay® requirements. It also exceeds current CARB (California Air Resources Board) requirements.”

The EPA’s and NHTSA’s Phase 2 Heavy-Duty (HD) rules are the latest regulations put in place to further reduce greenhouse (GHG) emissions and fuel consumption for medium-duty and heavy-duty vehicles – including trailers that are used in combination with tractors.

“After extensive testing at our R&D facility, the construction of the Utility Side Skirt is proven to be nearly indestructible and is designed to provide long-term durability,” added Mr. Bennett. Constructed from UV protected bi-directional fiberglass reinforced plastic, the Utility Side Skirt is engineered with a unique angled design at the bottom of the skirt for enhanced rigidity without a loss of flexibility. This design enables the skirt to maintain its structural integrity when the trailer is moving at higher speeds.

The Utility Side Skirt is now a standard feature on the 3000R® refrigerated van and the 4000D-X Composite® dry van trailers and  includes an industry leading 5-year warranty. You can learn more about the Utility Side Skirt, by watching our new video at: www.utilitytrailer.com/resources/videos