Aerodynamic trucks are expected to become popular in Europe following a decision by the European Union to fast-track regulations that will allow longer trucks – specifically so the front of truck cabs can be streamlined.
Until now such fuel-saving measures have come at the cost of load space and thus have not been embraced by truckmakers….except in concept trucks.
Acceptance by the EU that such aerodynamic designs can reduce fuel use and thus exhaust emissions has led to the move – which will see a committee of the EU Council begin negotiations with the European Parliament to amend the directive governing the overall length of trucks.
The EU says that "rounded, aerodynamic lorry cabs provide drivers with improved comfort and visibility, leading to an increase in road safety for lorry drivers and other road users. 
"Due to current EU restrictions on the length of goods vehicles, fleet operators planning to introduce aerodynamic cabs must reduce the amount of space allotted to cargo to compensate."
More streamlined cabs have been in use for many years in the United States – and now the EU says it wants to bring the changes into force as soon as possible.
Says the EU: "The amendment acknowledges changes in the needs of the market and developments in transport technology; and emphasises that the European Commission should allow the derogation (exemption) of current length restrictions to come into effect as soon as possible."