An Investigation into the Possible Reduction of Aerodynamic Drag of a Fuel Economy Vehicle

摘要

The drag of a low speed fuel economy vehicle was investigated with respect to changes to the body design, and the inclusion of certain add on devices. The characterictics of the unmodified and modified vehicles were determined in wind tunnel experiments. It was demonstrated that a drag coefficient of 0.28 can be obtained, representing a reduction of 55% compared with the unmodified vehicle. The results indicate that even lower drag can be achieved. Wheel and wheel/body interference drag contributed on the order of 1/3 to the total aerodynamic component. Major wheel design modifications and relocation should lead to a reduction in this contribution.