AERODYNAMICS OF THE MODERN CAR (PARTS 1 & 2)

In the two-part article the author discusses aerodynamics as applied to modern production cars and gives examples of ignorance on the subject among car stylists. It is stated that the application of aerodynamics has much to offer in terms of fuel consumption. This can only be brought about by more information being made available on part throttle specific fuel consumption. This information is lacking as many manufacturers have hitherto only been interested in acceleration and maximum speed. Fuel consumption graphs are shown which indicate the performance likely to be required of future generation cars. Ideal shapes for cars are considered including designs for reduction of drag, radiator intakes and the underside shape. It is concluded that car designs while providing adequate family accommodation should be able to provide a vehicle of reduced weight with low aerodynamic resistance using present technology. /TRRL/

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/03076490
• Corporate Authors:

  Institution of Mechanical Engineers

  1 Birdcage Walk
  London SW1H 9JJ,   England 
• Authors:
  • Costin, F
• Publication Date: 1975-10-12

Language

• English

Media Info

• Features: Figures; Photos; Tables;
• Pagination: 7 p.
• Serial:
  • AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEER
  • Volume: 1 N
  • Issue Number: 1/2
  • Publisher: Institution of Mechanical Engineers
  • ISSN: 0307-6490

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Aerodynamics; Automobiles; Design; Fuel consumption; Motor vehicle bodies; Vehicle design; Weight
• Uncontrolled Terms: Decreases
• ITRD Terms: 5492: Aerodynamics; 1356: Body (car); 1243: Car; 9009: Decrease; 9011: Design (overall design); 232: Fuel consumption; 5485: Weight
• Subject Areas: Design; Energy; Highways; Safety and Human Factors; Vehicles and Equipment; I91: Vehicle Design and Safety; I96: Vehicle Operating Costs;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00137710
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Transport and Road Research Laboratory (TRRL)
• Files: ITRD, TRIS
• Created Date: Apr 13 1977 12:00AM