MythBusters: Does Drafting Semis Improve Fuel Economy?

[Dynamically Aero]

If I heard the commercial right, next Wednesday's (6-6-2007) show will cover whether or not drafting a semi improves your car's FE.

[Matt Timion]

Originally Posted by Dynamically Aero

If I heard the commercial right, next Wednesday's (6-6-2007) show will cover whether or not drafting a semi improves your car's FE.

should be nice. They've done a number of shows on fuel economy in the past. I think I'll set the DVR to record this one.

[hoffmann277]

You heard correct. Now the wait for the "scientific" approach.

[OdieTurbo]

Originally Posted by Dynamically Aero

If I heard the commercial right, next Wednesday's (6-6-2007) show will cover whether or not drafting a semi improves your car's FE.

Yay! I love that show! Though I sometimes doubt their methods

[Silveredwings]

I hope they use a grapling hook....but wait, what'll they blow up?

[landspeed]

If I put my hand out of the window, drafting a lorry (semi), then the wind slows down a lot compared to driving on the open road. This is when following from many car lengths behind. Slower wind = less resistance = better economy, as far as I am concerned

Can someone youtube this - for us people not in the US who don't want to wait months to see it

[Matt Timion]

Originally Posted by hoffmann277

You heard correct. Now the wait for the "scientific" approach.

I have to agree with you. Their scientific methods are often questionable.

it's still entertaining.

[Snax]

Originally Posted by Silveredwings

I hope they use a grapling hook....but wait, what'll they blow up?

I'm certain that they will in fact draft so extremely close that the following vehicle should not be able to adequately cool itself - but much to Adams dismay, nothing will explode.

[Gibson Gangsta]

its def. a true fact....drafting works.....but again...mythbusters uses a set criteria so it may be a lil' goofy....like they'll prob. try and show that you have to draft within 10 feet of the rig....but we'll see....I know it works but'll be cool to see how much?

[ma4t]

Drafting might work if you want to drive the same speed as the truck, and you don't mind rock chips.

Where I live, trucks drive much slower than cars. I want to get where I'm going eventually.

MA4T