El Paso, Texas-based Stagecoach Cartage & Distribution recently became the first carrier in Texas to earn the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) SmartWay Elite trailer designation.
The company employs low rolling resistance tires and STEMCO TrailerTail rear fairings to increase their fuel efficiency by 10 percent or more, the company says.
For a trailer to receive the SmartWay Elite designation, it must employ a range of fuel-saving technologies, including aerodynamic devices and low rolling resistance tires, to meet a minimum fuel efficiency increase of 10 percent.
“We’re incredibly proud to be the first company in the state of Texas to receive this recognition,” says Mike Lovin, director of maintenance for Stagecoach Cartage. “By employing these fuel-saving technologies, we’re able to provide more competitive pricing for our customers and reduce our overall carbon footprint. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”
Stagecoach, a full-service trucking, warehousing, packaging and brokerage company, has been using the STEMCO TrailerTail rear fairing since 2011. By streamlining the airflow at the back of the trailer, the TrailerTail rear fairing reduces turbulence, sway and drag, improving fuel economy and also reducing driver fatigue.
“Increasing fuel efficiency for our customers is one of our primary goals at STEMCO,” says Bob Montgomery, STEMCO vice president of Innovative Tire and Mileage Solutions. “With the money our customers save, devices like a TrailerTail fairing or a side skirt can pay for themselves in just a few months. After that, savings go straight to the bottom line.”
Being designated a SmartWay Elite carrier also positions Stagecoach favorably as EPA and NHTSA Phase 2 greenhouse gas standards increase fuel efficiency and carbon emission requirements.
“From collision avoidance systems to electronic stability control to fuel efficiency devices, we pride ourselves on being an industry leader in adopting technologies that make us more efficient, safe and profitable,” Lovin says. “This SmartWay Elite recognition is one more reason our customers can feel confident in hiring Stagecoach Cartage and Distribution.”
In addition to TrailerTail fairings, Stagecoach also uses STEMCO wheel bearings, wheel seals, axle fasteners and brake shoes.
