The 3,700km journey was from San Diego, California, to Jacksonville in Florida, and took six days.
Starship transported its 18-tonne load of reef material for a new offshore reef installation in Florida, and the metrics were monitored throughout by the North American Council for Freight Efficiency, using onboard telematics.
Shell and its project partner AirFlow Truck Company measured the truck’s performance using freight-tonne efficiency – calculated by dividing the distance travelled by the amount of fuel consumed and multiplying that figure by the weight of the cargo.
Starship’s result was 68.9 tonne-kilometres per litre, versus the North American average figure of 27.8.
The truck’s best fuel figure during the journey was 10.2mpg, with an average result of 8.94mpg.
The freight-tonne efficiency result is attributed to a combination of Shell lubricants technology, enhanced aerodynamics – including customised carbon fibre cab and full side skirts along the length of the trailer – Cummins X-15 efficiency engine, low rolling resistance tyres and driving strategy.
The vehicle was lubricated by a Shell low viscosity, fully synthetic heavy-duty engine oil, similar to Shell Rimula Ultra E+.
Robert Mainwaring, technology manager for innovation, Shell Lubricants, said: “We are proud that the Starship Truck was able to complete the coast-to-coast run in real-world trucking operations and conditions, including torrential rains.”
He added: “We tested the Starship truck, using technologies available today, to provide insight into how trucking fleets and owner-operators could reduce fuel use and emissions as they haul heavy loads. This includes optimised aerodynamics, drivetrain and operational efficiencies, and low viscosity lubricants.”
Mike Roeth, executive director at the North American Council for Freight Efficiency, said it was a “rewarding opportunity to see the truck move from an idea on paper”.