When you have to faithfully recreate various towing conditions for trucks ranging from daily-driver pickups to big-rigs, Taylor Dynamometer is a fascinating alternative. Todd Poirson, our friendly Taylor Dynamometer representative, swung by the TFLtruck/TFLcar office to chat with our very own Managing Editor, Andre Smirnov.
Utilizing electromagnetic technology to create resistance, Taylor Dynamometer trailers can create a simulated mountain accent or descent. This product is used for everything from power plant evaluation to emissions and cruise control system testing. Down-hill simulations can be made available by using an electric motor to propel the Taylor Dynamometer trailer and the truck. Combined, these positive and negative resistance inputs can be repeated again and again. That also includes simulated wind resistance based on different trailer profiles.
While the system challenges the vehicle, it is unable to fully recreate an Ike Gauntlet towing challenge (like the ones we use in our annual Gold Hitch competition). Air density, barometric pressure, external climate conditions, traffic and trailer inputs are unique to TFLtruck’s “World’s Toughest Towing Challenge.”
In this video interview, Andre gets down to the nitty-gritty of how the Taylor Dynamometer works. Check it out and don’t forget to tune in for our Gold Hitch Awards announcements taking place on April 3rd, 2018.
