Is It Practical to STREAMLINE for FUEL ECONOMY?

THIS paper develops the theme that streamlining is practical if, and only if, the power-supply system is engineered to fit the body. The author shows that the reduction in road-load power required brought about by streamlining may be accompanied by a less favorable engine specific fuel rate unless the transmission system is altered to prevent this result. The quantitative importance of this efficiency change is brought out, and the potential gains are set forth.

The present state and future limitations of streamlining as a source of economy are treated, and test-car results are quoted. The economies to be realized are stated to come from the lower horsepower required to maintain a given engine speed.

The importance of car weight and cross-sectional area are brought out, as well as the necessity for maintaining the accelerating ability of the streamlined car along with its improved economy.