Leading commercial vehicle body builders Bevan Group has unveiled its revolutionary new rigid body, the streamline Bevan21 a major innovation in rigid bodywork styling.

Developed by engineers at Bevan Group with the help of leading European aerodynamic specialists, the new 21 features improved aerodynamic body styling to reduce wind slip resistance and drag along with creating a stunning outline to the vehicle. Aerodynamic features include:

• curved roof running to the mid length of the vehicle
• specially moulded air deflector
• reduced body width with increased height to maintain internal cubic volume of 37m3.
• specially moulded cab collar
• side skirts along the length of the body
• tapered rear quarter panel

The new design has the capability to deliver a fuel saving of over 15%, following independent track trials carried out by Commercial Motor Magazine at the Millbrook Proving Ground using two identical 7.5tonne chassis day cabs for Nightfreight, one fitted with a standard Bevan Body and the other a Bevan21. Both vehicles ran at the same time and at three constant speeds of 64 km/h, 80km/h and 85km/h. At 64km/h the Bevan21 achieved savings of 15.7% in fuel (for full test results and analysis see Commercial Motor Magazine 5th February)

The first 21 went into operation earlier this month with Argos Direct, part of the Home Retail Group. Results of the Argos trials are expected in the autumn, with further trials taking place with Comet and Nightfreight.

Commenting on the trials David Rose, General Manager at Argos Direct said “Argos is continually investigating ways of improving the fuel efficiency of our fleet. We’re extremely excited about the Bevan21, aerodynamic body styling is proven to improve fuel efficiency and when you consider our home delivery fleet clocks up millions of miles a year, this vehicle has the potential to make a huge contribution to reducing our C0² emissions.”

Anthony Bevan, Managing Director at Bevan Group is encouraged by the response “We’re delighted with the end result; along with improving fuel efficiency the finished vehicle is visually stunning, it’s a real eye catcher. The new 21 has made an immediate impact in the commercial environment and we’re really pleased with the positive response from our customers. This vehicle has the potential to change the shape of rigid bodywork and help to reduce the commercial vehicle industries impact on the environment. It’s real progress.”