The Control of Aerodynamic Parameters Influencing Vehicle Dynamics

An analytical model is used to compare the influence of aerodynamic parameters on vehicle dynamics at high speeds (typically 180 km/h) to the influence of other important vehicle characteristics. Typical driving conditions considered are fast highway driving, braking, and driving in a cross wind. Some experimental results are presented in addition. The results show that a low overall lift level with a positive pitch moment is desirable for good handling characteristics. They also show that observed differences of the aerodynamic data on production cars are less influential on crosswind sensitivity compared with certain other vehicle characteristics, such as center of gravity position.

The control of the important aerodynamic parameters influencing vehicle dynamics, such as lift and yaw-moment coefficients, is described in some detail. Ine behavior of these aerodynamic parameters for low-drag cars is also discussed.