Sophie Hall
1. Active aerodynamics – These systems use movable parts on the car’s body, such as flaps or wings, to adjust airflow and reduce drag on the vehicle.
2. Underbody aerodynamics – By designing a smooth underbody, manufacturers can reduce lift and drag. This technique has become popular in recent years with lower ride-height racing cars.
3. Lightweight materials – Carbon fiber composite and other advanced materials help reduce vehicle weight, leading to improvements in fuel efficiency and handling.
4. Lowered ride height – Lowering the vehicle’s ride height can reduce air resistance and improve handling. This technique is commonly used in racing cars.
5. Streamlined body shapes – By improving the shape of a vehicle’s body, designers can reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. The shape and contours of a car’s body now represent the most significant factor in modern aerodynamic design.
6. Active grille shutters – These shutters open and close automatically to regulate airflow through the car’s engine compartment, reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency.
7. Wind tunnel testing – Automotive companies design their vehicles in wind tunnels to test the aerodynamics of different body shapes, materials, and active systems.
8. Improved suspension – By improving the suspension system, manufacturers can reduce the overall ride height of a car and improve handling.
9. Diffusers – These are specialized components on the back of certain cars that help to manage high-speed airflow and improve downforce.
10. Air curtains – These are small vents that help to manage airflow and reduce turbulence around the vehicle’s wheels, leading to reduced drag and better fuel efficiency.
