An Aerodynamic Test Facility for Scale-Model Automobiles

A facility for the aerodynamic testing of scale model vehicles has been developed. Suitable test section geometry, ground plane simulation, model setup technique, flow quality, and aerodynamic force and moment measurement capability are provided for automobile models of 1/4 to 3/8 scale.

The maximum velocity of 160 mph enables 3/8 scale, 120 in wheelbase vehicles to be tested at Reynolds numbers approaching 5 × 10₆, based on wheelbase. A 3/8 scale model in a 160 mph airstream is dynamically similar to full-scale tests at 60 mph. Details of the facility are described.