Wind Tunnel testing ????

cdlaine wrote:
Does anybody know if any in the RV industry are
using wind tunnel test results in manufacturing
build specifications ?

I was watching MotorWeek and they showed /
demonstrated the effect of rear end drag
created by a what was a "boxed" rear end.
(the "smoke" broke up immediately after
passing the rear of the vehicle ). Apparently,
the smoother the transition post vehicle the
less drag...modifications included "smoothing"
under the vehicle. I don't understand all the
engineering/aerodynamics but does seem plausible
to apply testing to the RV industry. My review
of the European RV market seems to indicate
they are paying attention.

So, why is this important ? Average cost of gal.
of gas between $3.20 - $3.60 (diesel more)... and,
the experts "predicting" only going higher. Might be
time to give a little more then lip service to
RV aerodynamics.

What say the congregation ?

Interestingly, the wind tunnel effects have been applied
to just about any type watercraft, or aircraft...just haven't
seen the RV in the discussion.

Charles

Well the Europeans worry a little more about the cost of fuel, daughter lives in Ireland, currently gas is about euro 1.59 and diesel 1.49 a Liter. That is euro 6.16 for a gallon of gas, and euro 5.77 a gallon for diesel.
Carry that just a bit further, the gas is $8.33 a gallon US, and diesel is $7.80 f0r Diesel.