GMC AERO ASTRO BODY PANELS

The GMC Aero Astro is a C.O.E. (Cab-Over-Engine) Vehicle which incorporates the use of add-on plastic body panels to achieve a more aerodynamicly efficient truck-tractor. These panels are made of low pressure-low modulus unreinforced RIM plastic and FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) using RTM (Resin Transfer Molding) fabricating techniques to obtain Class "A" surfaces. The RTM process is unique since the reinforcement is integrally molded to the outer skins in a one step operation. The RIM (Reaction Injection Molded) panel is designed to collapse into a low profile sidewall when the dragfoiler is dropped into the lowered position. However, this same panel would have to expand and remain rigid enough to minimize cross wind effects in the raised position. This paper describes how these panels were developed for the Aero Astro, and how they would negotiate the multi-mission requirements for fuel efficiency.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • Vehicle Aerodynamic Developments SP-545; Passenger Car Meeting, Dearborn, Michigan, June 6-9, 1983.
• Corporate Authors:

  Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)

  400 Commonwealth Drive
  Warrendale, PA  United States  15096
• Authors:
  • Gregg, W W
• Publication Date: 1983

Media Info

• Features: Figures; References;
• Pagination: p. 65-73
• Serial:
  • Publication of: Pergamon Press Limited
  • Publisher: Pergamon Press, Incorporated

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Aerodynamics; Fiber reinforced plastics; Fuel conservation; Panels; Plastics; Reaction injection molding; Reinforced plastics; Trucks; Vehicle bodies; Vehicle design
• Identifier Terms: General Motors Corporation
• Old TRIS Terms: Cab over engine trucks; Resin transfer molding; Unreinforced plastics
• Subject Areas: Design; Energy; Motor Carriers; Safety and Human Factors; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00381769
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Report/Paper Numbers: SAE 831003, HS-035 564
• Files: HSL, USDOT
• Created Date: Feb 29 1984 12:00AM