Neil Agarwal
Independent Researcher
India
Abstract
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has become an essential tool for analyzing airflow around vehicles to enhance aerodynamic efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. This study investigates the airflow patterns around a mid-sized passenger vehicle using CFD techniques to understand the influence of aerodynamic design on fuel efficiency. The simulations were carried out using Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations coupled with turbulence models prevalent till 2020, such as k-ε and k-ω SST models. Results highlight critical flow separation zones, vortex formations, and pressure distributions influencing drag force. By optimizing airflow paths and minimizing aerodynamic drag, fuel efficiency improvements can be achieved. This research demonstrates how CFD analyses guide design modifications that contribute to sustainable automotive engineering practices.
Keywords
Computational Fluid Dynamics, Vehicle Aerodynamics, Airflow Patterns, Fuel Efficiency, Drag Reduction, Turbulence Models, RANS
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