A revised and updated edition of Shell’s sleek and racey looking ‘Starship’ truck is set to hit US highways as part of a coast-to-coast trial next year.
The concept was first unveiled back in 2018, and a 2,300 mile test run from San Diego to Jacksonville soon followed.
The aerodynamic truck will now be tested again after being refined by Shell based on “key takeaways” from the initial program in 2018. The second edition of the truck also introduces new, innovative technologies according to Shell:
Since the first phase of the Starship truck and demonstration run were completed in the spring of 2018, Shell have made additional technology updates and improvements to the truck. We hope to continue the conversation around freight ton efficiency and prove how much better we can be. Stay tuned to see Starship 2.0 as it is debuted in the first half of 2021. We intend to take it out on another coast to coast demonstration run to compare to the initial results.
The technological enhancements on the truck include engine and drive train technology, the use of low viscosity synthetic lubricants, aerodynamic designs, efficient driving methods and more.
The Class 8 tractor trailer, which is claimed to be “hyper-fuel efficient” has been designed by Shell Lubricants and the AirFlow Truck Company. Both organisations say the joint venture was motivated by the need to increase fuel efficiency and cut C02 emissions.
Although the truck may look striking, it hasn’t necessarily garnered a lot of fans on social media since news broke of its return yesterday. Many US-based truckers said they couldn’t see the truck managing to overcome challenging road surfaces or railway lines at crossroads given its low ride height.
Photo credit: Shell
