How does aerodynamics work on cars

In designing aerodynamic features on cars, two main concepts are considered: downforce and drag. Downforce uses areas of low pressure to keep the vehicle on the ground and improve handling and brake response at high speeds. However, certain aerodynamic features that increase downforce on a car also can increase drag, which forces the car to require more power to maintain a speed.

Active aerodynamics began appearing on production vehicles in the mid to late 's. Active aerodynamic systems typically adjust certain aerodynamic features based on the speed of the vehicle. However, other information such as acceleration, yaw rate, steering wheel angle, and brake input may also be utilized. The figure below displays several aerodynamic components that are incorporated in various vehicles today.

Those highlighted in green are typically integrated into the frame and are not currently part of active aerodynamic systems, while those highlighted in red are active systems in certain automobiles.

The stationary aerodynamic features focus on directing the air rushing past the car to optimal locations. Tire vents, for example allow the air to cool the tires and brakes, thereby improving fuel efficiency and prolonging the life of those components. By making the front of the vehicle semi-permeable, rather than a solid wall, the high stagnation of pressure at the start can be reduced.

Of course, this air has to go somewhere, typically through the engine bay and radiator. Vents and intakes can also improve car aerodynamics.

Side vents can also be found near the car wheels , allowing air to pass through this area, over the tyres and back out of the vehicle. This allows air to expand into a larger cavity, reducing the pressure. Spoilers are shaped much like airplane wings, angled to reduce lift by obstructing life-generating airflow, causing it to move horizontally or sharply up. A rear wing, on the other hand, generates additional downforce by pushing air upwards.

Terms and conditions Delivery costs Delivery time. Site map How cookies are used Registration of a new fitting station For media. You will find drivers using tyres bought at Oponeo all across Europe. Click on a flag to visit our foreign web-shops. Click if you live in Ireland. Tyres Wheels Customer guide.

Alloy wheels Steel wheels. Tyre reviews Over 90, independent reviews. Articles The greatest tyre knowledge source on the Internet.

Tools Markings, pressure, exchangebles, speed and load indexes. Your vehicle View the dedicated products for your vehicle. Select your vehicle. Viewed products Here you will see a list of your recently viewed products. Your cart is empty. You have products in the cart. Enter your order number and your surname or VAT number.

Order no. Air resistance basics So how does air resistance work? Air resistance and car designs When cars were first made, no one focused on aerodynamics. This also gives them a smaller frontal area, reducing the amount of resistance generated. Lift and downforce Two key forces that occur are lift and downforce. How do car designers work with aerodynamics? By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Sign up.

Main Menu Search driving. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. We apologize, but this video has failed to load. Try refreshing your browser, or tap here to see other videos from our team. Metal craftsman creating a coupe that never existed. This McLaren P1 is now the most expensive car sold by an online auction house.

Where do you park your car keys? Preventing relay attacks. Thanks for signing up! Notice for the Postmedia Network This website uses cookies to personalize your content including ads , and allows us to analyze our traffic. Choose Trim. My Picks.