Hi my name is Peter and I'm looking for a bit of advise on whether I should have a canopy on my triton ute for better fuel economy, I'm pulling a Jayco discovery outback, would I get better fuel economy with a canopy or is it about the same without it. At the moment I'm getting about 15 liters to 100 kms. I'm about to do a trip east and any advise would be appreciated.
Welcome to the gang olppete, enjoy here and out in the playground.
I have a Colorado Twin Cab Ute with a canopy and love it. Great waterproof covered storage area. that holds heaps. However, now that I have had it for 18 months Sometimes I would like better access to sides and rear. If I had to do it again I would seriously look into a Aluminium box/canopy with lift up sides and rear. Much more access and you could rig up racks both sides with gap down middle for any long items.
Keep Safe on the roads.
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Live Life On Your Terms
DOUGChief One Feather (Losing feathers with age)
TUG.......2014 Holden LT Colorado Twin Cab Ute with Canopy
DEN....... 2014 "Chief" Arrow CV (with some changes)
It should not affect your fuel economy to any great extent one way or the other. If anything it could increase your consumption slightly due to the additional weight of the canopy. Modern canopies are very streamlined and follow the car's roofline so offer little or no wind resistance. I have a canopy on my Navara and wouldn't be without one, in particular for the waterproofing aspect and the additional security. Though I must add that during shopping at Woolworths in Alice Springs a few years ago the canopy was of no help. Whilst having dinner at a Chinese next to Woolworths some mongrel broke the canopy side window and stole all the groceries.
I don't no if this is any help, i watched a segment of mifbusters about 3yrs ago.
They done a test with a standard aluminum tray ute.
Test was with the tailgate on and a test without tailgate.
The fuel used over a 100km trip was about the same, so small you would not notice.
Have a look on youtube must be something on your question.
