Aerodynamic Enablers Review for Automotive Applications 2016-36-0203
Automakers are seeking more efficient and green vehicles projects in terms of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Several factors are directly related to the performance and one of the most important is the aerodynamics. Cars with smooth geometries and transitions are expected to have a better aerodynamic behavior compared with the ones with rough geometries.
Regardless the vehicle geometry changes, another way to improve the aerodynamics is by adding new parts, in order to improve the drag coefficient of the car. Most of the time, these parts are added but the functionality is not well defined. The main objective of this work is to identify, explain the way it should work and some applications of additional aeroparts. Those parts could be assembled in a vehicle in order to improve the drag coefficient, have a better fuel economy and lower emissions rate.
The work lists aeroparts to be assembled in the underhood, underbody, exterior and a collection of the latest enablers available in the current vehicles, in order to work as a guide for aerodynamics development and further improvements.
