Methods are described for measuring, on full-scale vehicles, the
value of systems tested in the wind tunnel /1/ for reducing drag
with varying vehicle configurations /solo truck, trailer
combination, and truck/.
The research forms part of a programme begun some years ago by
Fiat Veicoli Industriali S.p.A., the purpose of which is to improve
transport profitability, and the main objects of study were those
phenomena affecting fuel consumption:
- the vehicle's aerodynamics;
- performance of auxiliary assemblies;
- performance of heat engines;
- performance of transmissions;
- tyres.
The present paper is concerned with the first of the above five
aspects