AERODYNAMIC PERFORMANCE IN PASSENGER VEHICLES IMPROVED DUE TO MOVEABLE WHEEL WELL COVER

摘要

Systems and methods providing improved aerodynamic performance in passenger vehicles are generally described. The underbody of the passenger vehicle can be, in some cases, relatively smooth to reduce aerodynamic drag on the vehicle. In addition, the contour of the underbody can include one or more recessed portions that maintain relatively constant air pressure as air passes under the vehicle. The wheel fairings of the vehicle can also include one or more features that reduce aerodynamic drag. For example, the vehicle can include wheel fairings comprising one or more contours adjacent the interface between the wheel well and the underbody that serve to reduce pressure buildup adjacent the wheel well. In some embodiments, one or more wheels can include a wheel well cover that at least partially encloses the outside of the wheel well, such that air can pass smoothly along the side of the vehicle. In some embodiments, such as when the wheel well cover at least partially encloses a movable wheel, the wheel well cover can be adjustable such that contact between the tire (or any other part of the wheel) and the wheel well cover is avoided. The wheel well cover can include one or more curves (e.g., along 1-dimension as in a cylinder or along 2- dimensions as in a sphere), in some instances, which can accommodate a turning wheel such that the need to displace the wheel well cover in response to a turning wheel is reduced.