In the quest for a greener planet, Mercedes-Benz has taken on the challenge of turning one of the main culprits in gas-guzzling transportation into a cleaner and more eco-friendly mode of industry. Dubbed the Aero Trailer, it features a front airdam, side trim panels and a rear diffuser. Along with a tapered rear design and a longer total length, the aerodynamic changes allow for an additional 18 percent reduction in wind resistance when paired with the German's Actros tractor.

It is also said to reduce fuel consumption by about 5 percent. The longer total length will require government approval, however, as it is a half-yard too long to currently be considered street-legal. Mercedes estimates that when the truck travels 93,205 miles (a round 150,000km in the Imperial system), the big rig can save 528 gallons (2,000 liters) of diesel fuel. In terms of emissions, it keeps roughly five fewer tons of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere. The Mercedes-Benz Aero Trailer is part of the German company's "Truck and Trailer 7Plus" initiative.

The basis for the program "is the fuel consumption of the new Mercedes-Benz Actros, which is proven to be more than seven percent lower than its predecessor model, itself recognized as being frugal. This consumption advantage was achieved by the new Mercedes-Benz Actros earlier this year: during the "Record Run" it totaled 7.6 percent less consumption - with 25.1 to 27.1 liters/100 km."