Aerodynamics Matter !!
Hello All. First post here... wanted to share some data on aerodynamics. I am designing an ultralight (under 100 lbs/ft) small travel trailer and wanted to find out the effect of shape on aerodyna...
Forum Discussion
gmw, Thanks for the support.
Better engineering is the solution. Unfortunately, the path of least resistance has, well, the least resistance.
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A lot of the discussion is about fuel economy and what the out of pocket expense is. But there are other factors.
The wear and tear on your vehicle for that extra 10-15% power must take a toll. The first % is easy but squeezing that last 10% out isn't cheap. That puts a strain on everything including the engine, drivetrain, tires - and driver.
As Airstream owners have stated, cross-wind performance is improved with their aerodynamic shape making it safer with less driver fatigue.
With our gas in Canada costing more than double the US, maybe that is why it bothers me. Still, I think there is a lot more to save than just a little fuel - which in itself should be a good enough reason.
Ron
Better engineering is the solution. Unfortunately, the path of least resistance has, well, the least resistance.
---
A lot of the discussion is about fuel economy and what the out of pocket expense is. But there are other factors.
The wear and tear on your vehicle for that extra 10-15% power must take a toll. The first % is easy but squeezing that last 10% out isn't cheap. That puts a strain on everything including the engine, drivetrain, tires - and driver.
As Airstream owners have stated, cross-wind performance is improved with their aerodynamic shape making it safer with less driver fatigue.
With our gas in Canada costing more than double the US, maybe that is why it bothers me. Still, I think there is a lot more to save than just a little fuel - which in itself should be a good enough reason.
Ron
