Aerodynamic Drag Analysis of a Passenger Car for Increasing Fuel Economy

Abstract

As per the reports by Hedges & Company, by 2024, 1.4 billion passenger cars will currently be in use. Most of these people are careless about fuel waste, as maximum fuel consumption is a common problem. Many people must be more careful about this problem because fuel consumption is reduced. One can save a negligible amount of fuel by increasing fuel consumption, but with tremendous respect, if 1.4 billion people save this insignificant amount, it can contribute to the future and society. This paper deals with the aerodynamic drag of passenger cars and the reduction of drag. Reducing drag, wind noise, and noise pollution, as well as avoiding unwanted lift forces and other factors contributing to aerodynamic instability at high speeds, are the main problems of car aerodynamics. Different types of aerodynamic devices were designed with a model passenger car. These include Vortex generators, V-shaped bumper & rear spoiler. The difference between with & without aerodynamic devices shows the reduction in power consumption to overcome this drag. This means the amount of power needed to operate is lower; this proportionally reduces fuel consumption, thus increasing fuel economy. Under considering the optimum condition of the VG, a maximum of 46.65% of power was saved due to overcoming drag force.