Does a Tonneau Cover Affect Fuel Economy?
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According to these studies, it does...
From the SEMA Research and Information Center -
According a study conducted by Western New England College's Department of Mechanical Engineers, "The best way to reduce drag, and improve gas mileage for pickup trucks, is to add a tonneau cover." Their study yielded gas mileage savings of 8% by adding a tonneau cover to a Dodge Ram.
From Auto Trim & Restyling News - August 2001
From "Tailgate Talk - Does Removing A Tailgate Affect Fuel Economy?"
By Bruce W. Smith
According to many experts, the best way to improve a pickup's fuel economy is to leave the tailgate up and cover the bed with a quality aftermarket Tonneau cover. "Tonneau covers on pickup boxes reduce aerodynamic drag," said Ford's Jack Williams. "We've seen reductions of about 8 to 10 percent on the F150. The average steady-state [cruise control] fuel economy improvement at highway speeds is closer to 5 percent."
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