|
 |
| |
Thule breaks roof box fuel fables
|
Thule, the world’s largest manufacturer of car roof racks, roof boxes and accessories has disproved the myth that a Thule roof box significantly harms fuel economy, in a test at one of the world’s leading automotive research centres.
The experiment, carried out by top motoring publication Auto Express at the Millbrook research centre, Bedfordshire, showed that driving with a modern aerodynamic Thule roof box resulted in better fuel economy than turning your air conditioning on, having low tyre pressures or even driving with your windows open.
The test results demonstrated that even when a Thule roof box was loaded to near full capacity on the 2008 Vauxhall Astra 1.9 CDTI SRi test car, the fuel economy figures showed 30.2 miles to the gallon – only 0.2 MPG less than the starting baseline of 30.5 MPG.
Anthony Sale, senior powertrain engineer at the Millbrook Facility carried out the experiment alongside senior technician Alan Johnson. With Thule Aero bars and a Spirit roof box attached, the Vauxhall Astra’s fuel economy was tested on a 7.75 mile course around the famous Millbrook high-speed 40 mile bowl track.
“I’m quite surprised, I thought it would be more,” said Anthony Sale of the low roof box test results. “I guess it’s because roof box makers attempt to make them as aerodynamic as possible.” Alan Johnson also commented in the roof box’s favour, by noting there was no additional wind noise from the box as he lapped the test track.
The tests were devised to simulate both flat A-road and city route conditions. Engine speed and throttle position were monitored to calculate CO2 emissions and these calculations were then used to work out the fuel economy of each experiment.
Peter Barker, Thule UK general manager commented: “It’s fantastic to be recognised by the UK’s leading consumer automotive magazine for our top class design and manufacturing. Thule constantly test our product designs to provide the most aerodynamic and safe driving conditions possible.”
Thule products are all tested vigorously for endurance, aerodynamic capability, shock and road tests at the City Crash test facility in Hillerstop, Sweden and meet the specific ISO and DIN standards required by the automotive industry. All products come with a five year guarantee. |
- Thule Leisure products are available from all leading car accessory and leisure outlets, including Halfords. Find your nearest Thule dealer with the dealer locator on www.thule.co.uk.
- To locate your nearest Thule Professional dealer, please go to the dealer locator at www.thuleprofessional.co.uk
- All Thule products come with a 5-year guarantee.
- Prices of all Thule products are available on request.
|
| |
Press Releases Issued by:
Publicity Matters,
First Floor,
The Courtyard,
120 High Street,
Nailsea,
Bristol.
BS48 1AH
Tel: +44 (0)1275 770 701
For more information, please email: pr@thule.co.uk |
| |
|
| |
| |
|
 |
| |
| |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| |
Donna Watkins
Publicity Matters.
First Floor,
The Courtyard,
120 High Street,
Nailsea,
Bristol,
BS48 1AH
T: 01275 770 701
F: 01275 770 702
E: pr@thule.co.uk
This email address is for PR
and Marketing enquiries only. |
| |
|
|
