Aerodynamics are not easy to understand owing to their invisible nature
Some people say that they do not think aerodynamics is necessary because it is concerned only with racing cars that must pursue time records. They also say that they cannot understand the necessity because they do not drive so fast anyway.
Others acknowledge that they can feel the improvement in comfort on an expressway.
This is an example of a driver's physical perception of aerodynamic effectiveness, in much the same way as the "turbulence on an expressway" referred to in NEXT FUTURE 1.
Another familiar example is the breaking ball in baseball resulting from changes in air resistance on the small object due to its spinning, even at a speed of about 80 km/h.
Aero parts that appeal physically to all drivers
This was the concept we pursued in developing the IS F CCS Parts. Seeking further evolution, we made two additions to RC F:
"Aero parts that do not disturb the smooth body line of the coupe"
"Aero parts that provide necessary downforce with low drag"
Though seeming simple, these goals are very difficult to achieve because they involve contradictory requirements.
For example, the body of a vehicle traveling at speed on an expressway tends to be lifted, and needs higher downforce for stabilization. The force, however, produces drag, which may affect the acceleration and maximum speed of the car.
Aerodynamics engineers perform a number of wind-tunnel testing and CFD analysis, and analyze the results to determine the optimum body geometry.
Then, using clay models, the designers pursue a body shape that is visually satisfactory.
Aerodynamics can be the most powerful weapon for us at works to manipulate the air flow.
"The best weight distribution ratio is 50:50."
"For a mid-engine vehicle with high traction, 40:60 is ideal."
"About 65:35 is good for top-heavy front-wheel-drive cars."
These points are often heard in conversations among car enthusiasts.
Note that they apply only to a standing vehicle. What if the wing of a car running at 100 km/h produces a downforce of 50 kg that is exerted to the rear axle?
The weight distribution during running has rarely been referred to for cars on the market, if not so rarely for racing cars, probably because the significant effects of aerodynamics are not visible.
What do you want to achieve or change with aerodynamics?
Different shapes and functions have resulted from different answers to this question. Our answer is this:
A quality that invites drivers to accelerate further, to drive once more.
The pursuit of car geometry that achieves the ultimate balance continues in order to produce vehicles that are stable under any conditions.
All for the optimum solution – beautility
