Collaboration between CFD and Wind Tunnel Technology in the Automotive Engineering Field

Abstract

  This article introduces the current state of CFD analysis and wind tunnel measurement technologies, which are fundamental technologies supporting vehicle aerodynamic development, and their collaboration. Topics specific to the automotive vehicle aerodynamics field are introduced and the future of both technologies in this field is also briefly discussed. In the current vehicle aerodynamic development, both wind tunnel measurement and CFD analysis for evaluating the aerodynamic drag can be conducted at approximately the same cost. Consequently, both technologies are utilized in a complementary manner to facilitate efficient development. Wind tunnel measurement provides highly accurate aerodynamic assessments, while CFD analysis facilitates the execution of numerous studies without the necessity for physical vehicles. Moreover, it is expected that their collaboration will be advantageous in advanced aerodynamic performance evaluations in on-road conditions.