Asked by: John Russell, Inverness
Yes, vehicles create a region of relatively low-pressure air behind them, and it is indeed possible to reduce fuel consumption by getting into this ‘slip-stream’. According to research published last year by the University of Aachen, Germany, lorries can save around 17 per cent in fuel by tailgating each other. Don’t try it yourself, though.
Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.
Latest
