How To Improve Your Aerodynamics
When it comes to your car, you spare no expense. You get your oil changed every 3,000 miles. You stay up to date on scheduled maintenance. You might’ve even invested in a few valuable aftermarket upgrades. You want to maximize your fuel economy and get a stylish, comfortable ride. But have you given any thought to your aerodynamics? This is an important upgrade that even the savviest car owners overlook, but it can make a world of difference.
Car Aerodynamics – You Have More Control Than You Think
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NASA defines aerodynamics as “the way air moves around things.” Notice the contoured shape of airplane wings and rockets. These designs aren’t implemented for the sake of looking cool. They’re optimized for maximum aerodynamic benefit. Cars are also designed with aerodynamics in mind. From the flat floor to the sloped windshield to the rounded front end, everything is designed to maximize the vehicle’s aerodynamics.
Without these features, your car would suffer from aerodynamic instability, especially at high speeds. This causes excess drag, wind noise, and less reliable downforce, reducing traction and creating unsafe turning conditions. As you can see, quality aerodynamics is critical for any vehicle. Even if your car or truck is built for speed and performance, there are still aerodynamic improvements you can make.
Read: What Does A Front Car Spoiler Do?
Why Improve My Car’s Aerodynamics?
There are many reasons to improve your aerodynamics, but the biggest is fuel economy. Drag places strain on your engine and causes you to burn more fuel. Aerodynamic improvements will reduce drag by enabling your vehicle to navigate against the airflow with less resistance. As a result, your gas mileage improves and you save money at the pump. Fuel economy isn’t the only reason motorists pay special attention to aerodynamics. If you’ve spent any time in the racing scene or even spent a Sunday watching NASCAR, you know that racing cars are built for aerodynamics above all else. That’s because every square inch of your vehicle must be aerodynamically sound if you want to be competitive. If even one facet of your car is creating unnecessary drag, your competition will leave you in their dust.
You’ve probably heard of the drag coefficient, which is the mathematical measurement of a vehicle’s aerodynamic smoothness. Race car designers work tirelessly to build vehicles with the lowest possible drag area to push the boundaries of speed and performance. If you’re looking to achieve any sort of speed advantage, it’s important to examine any aerodynamic improvements you can make.
Finally, improved aerodynamics results in less noise and a smoother ride. You don’t have to be a racing aficionado to experience the benefits. In fact, anyone can take simple steps to enhance their own aerodynamics – no mechanic required. Next, we’ll examine how quick and easy it can be.
How To Improve Your Car Aerodynamics
First, consider anything that may be creating an unnecessary or excessive drag on your vehicle. For example, a roof rack can have a negative impact on aerodynamics. Eliminate it if you don’t need it. Even protruding accessories like flags can impact drag, so be mindful of any attachments that may be impeding your airflow. Do you drive a pickup truck? Your truck bed may be the biggest hindrance to your aerodynamics. Installing a tonneau cover can solve this issue.
The next tip is simple: roll up your windows, particularly if you’re traveling at highway speeds. An open window creates an entry point for airflow, increasing drag. The fresh air might feel good, but it’s slowing you down.
Do you have wide tires? Consider replacing them with narrower alternatives. Narrow tires are better for aerodynamics, and they offer other benefits such as better snow travel. Of course, there are pros and cons to choosing narrow tires. Before making this particular aerodynamic upgrade, consider your options.
How The All-Fit Lip Kit Improves Your Car’s Aerodynamics
Finally, we have one of the easiest and yet most effective aerodynamic improvements: a lip kit. By adding an aftermarket lip kit like the Universal Lip Kit from All-Fit Automotive, you can reduce drag and maximize airflow at a low price. Anyone can install the kit in a matter of minutes, and it looks great. If you’ve been considering ways to improve the aerodynamics of your vehicle, check out the All-Fit Universal Lip Kit today.
Experience The Difference Of Improved Aerodynamics
By catering to the aerodynamic needs of your vehicle, you can improve gas mileage, enjoy a smoother ride, and even increase the life of your car.