Aerodynamics

Form Enhances Function

DETROIT, 2008-06-24 – Besides its bowtie insignia, the all-new Traverse crossover shares something important with Chevy’s midsize cars: an exceptional aerodynamic drag coefficient (cd) that enables great fuel economy. Its cd is only 0.33 – making it the sleekest crossover in the segment.

2009 Chevrolet Traverse LTZ

When it hits showrooms this fall, the Traverse is expected to have the segment’s best highway fuel economy (EPA certification is pending). This is because of its new, efficient 3.6L V-6 with direct injection technology, a fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission and an exterior designed to cheat the wind and slip through the air with minimal resistance.

DEARBORN, Mich., May 14, 2008 – Cheating the wind with aerodynamic improvements helps the 2009 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner become more fuel efficient.

Already among America’s most fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly SUVs, the Escape and Mariner receive aerodynamic refinements on top of powertrain upgrades that contribute to an overall estimated 1 mpg improvement in fuel economy for the four- and six-cylinder models.

“Aerodynamic refinements are the most cost-effective ways to reduce fuel consumption,” says Van Stewart, Escape/Mariner aerodynamicist. “Without significantly altering the design of the vehicle, we can find ways to optimize the flow of air to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.”

2007-12-10, Warren, MI –The massive fan in GM’s aero lab wind tunnel has been cranked up to full blast as GM’s designers and engineers work to optimize the aerodynamics of the Chevrolet Volt as part of the quest to make the breakthrough concept car a production reality. Aerodynamic improvement is a critical step in meeting the range targets necessary for moving the vehicle to a final production decision.

The design team, now with its own studio dedicated to the development of vehicles powered by the E-flex propulsion system, has been working with engineering, aerodynamicists and other scientists to develop an energy efficient Chevrolet Volt by optimizing aerodynamics.