A lack of innovation brought about the patented teardrop truck cap design.
Slick Dilemma
Presenting the new Ford F-150 Coupe Pickup! Having trouble deciding between the functionality of a truck over the slick styling of a Mustang? That dilemma has been solved by the Aero X topper from Michigan Vehicle Solutions (MVS), but only for fans of late 1960s Fastbacks—not to mention louvers. Despite the curious design, the slanted cap is backed by proven aerodynamics.
Photos courtesy of MVS.
Style Crisis
Once the exclusive domain of job sites, many trucks have now gone from utilitarian workers to upscale grocery-getters. Thing is, pickup trucks do not get the best gas mileage. Triangular-shaped aeroshells are nothing new. They made an appearance in the mid-1970s during the oil crisis but were often backyard builds, lacking any real style or good functionality.
Slanted Innovation
Located just outside of Detroit in Southgate, Michigan, MVS conjured up the Fastback-inspired Aero X in 2019. As an industry leader, MVS offers a range of custom applications and automotive services. CEO Rich Oliver recounted how he arrived at the idea to make the louvered topper in a The Drive interview. He stated, “We looked around and saw the lack of innovation out there.”
Field Course
Oliver also noted that today's truck box options are limited, and in his view, antiquated. He continued, “It's time for something different than our grandfathers' bed caps. The flat tonneau, the shoebox, all that has run its course.” Putting his faith in a Field of Dreams approach, Oliver is hoping the Mustang-capped F-150 will be the next big truck trend.
Research Process
After commissioning a few renderings, a design was finalized and MVS made a commitment to producing the Aero X. Oliver stated, “It's been an 'if you build it, they will come' kind of process.” MVS has yet to produce any real numbers on fuel savings brought about by its Aero X cap, but a lot of that research has already been done.
Limited Help
With ever-tightening emission regulations, pickup trucks are having a hard time. Their basic design of a large frontal area, big wheel spaces, a blunt end to the passenger cabin, and an open cargo bay are just not that rewarding when it comes to aerodynamics. Conventional caps do little to help, and the tried and true method of running with the tailgate down has limited results.
Trunk Coefficient
The problem is only compounded with all-electric trucks, as battery range becomes a critical consideration. The teardrop design is ultimately the best choice for a low drag coefficient but sacrifices a good bit of a pickup truck's utilitarian function. Parked somewhere in the middle of that equation is the Aero X cap. The weatherproof topper essentially turns the bed into a large trunk.
Security Savings
The unique Aero X cap was awarded several patents on its release. MVS states that it retains the functionality of the truck bed while providing additional security. Also, the integrated rear-window louver offers sun protection without obstructing rearward vision. Starting at $4500, the topper can be paint color matched. The question is, how long will it take to pay for itself in fuel savings?
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