How To Make A Car More Aerodynamic
Improving a car’s aerodynamics isn’t just for race cars or high-performance vehicles. Whether you’re looking to increase fuel efficiency, reduce wind noise, or enhance stability at higher speeds, making your car more aerodynamic can bring significant benefits. Aerodynamic efficiency helps your car move through air with less resistance, which means the engine works less, fuel consumption drops, and handling becomes smoother. From simple modifications to more advanced upgrades, there are many ways to improve a vehicle’s aerodynamic profile without turning it into a full-blown racing machine.
Understanding Vehicle Aerodynamics
What Is Aerodynamics?
Aerodynamics refers to how air moves around objects in this case, your car. When air flows smoothly over a vehicle’s surfaces, it creates less drag, or resistance. Reducing drag allows the car to travel more easily, requiring less energy from the engine.
Why Aerodynamics Matter
- Improved fuel economy
- Better vehicle stability
- Reduced noise at highway speeds
- Enhanced performance for acceleration and top speed
Simple Ways to Make a Car More Aerodynamic
1. Remove Roof Racks and Carriers
One of the easiest ways to reduce drag is to take off roof racks, cargo boxes, or bike mounts when they’re not in use. These accessories disrupt airflow and increase wind resistance, especially at highway speeds.
2. Close the Windows at High Speeds
Driving with the windows down creates turbulence and increases drag. For improved aerodynamics and fuel efficiency, keep windows rolled up and use the air conditioning or ventilation system instead.
3. Keep the Vehicle Clean and Polished
A clean, smooth surface allows air to glide more easily over the body of the car. Regular washing and waxing can help reduce surface friction, improving airflow across panels and windows.
Vehicle Modifications for Better Aerodynamics
4. Install a Front Air Dam or Splitter
A front air dam, or splitter, redirects air away from the underbody and over the top of the car. This reduces the amount of turbulent air that can get trapped underneath, helping to lower drag and increase stability.
5. Add Side Skirts
Side skirts are installed along the lower edge of the car’s side panels. They help control the airflow between the wheels and the car’s body, minimizing turbulence and drag caused by the spinning tires.
6. Use an Underbody Panel
The underside of most vehicles is not smooth, and components like the exhaust, suspension, and drivetrain can disrupt airflow. Installing underbody panels or a flat belly pan can streamline airflow underneath the car, reducing resistance and lift.
7. Upgrade to a Rear Diffuser
A diffuser is located at the rear underside of the car. It controls the flow of air exiting from underneath, reducing turbulence and improving airflow separation. This can lead to better downforce and reduced drag.
8. Install a Rear Spoiler (If Useful)
Contrary to popular belief, not all spoilers reduce drag. Some actually increase it to provide downforce. However, a properly designed rear lip spoiler can help reduce lift at the back of the car and improve stability, especially at higher speeds.
9. Cover the Rear Wheels
Some aerodynamic designs especially on hybrid and electric vehicles feature partial or full rear wheel covers. These help reduce drag caused by air turbulence around the wheel wells, which is a major source of resistance.
Optimize Tire and Wheel Setup
10. Use Low-Rolling Resistance Tires
While not directly aerodynamic, tires that are designed for low rolling resistance require less energy to move, improving overall efficiency. Pairing these with aerodynamic wheel covers can further reduce drag.
11. Maintain Proper Tire Inflation
Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and cause the car to work harder. Keeping your tires properly inflated ensures better performance and smoother travel through air and on the road.
12. Choose Lightweight, Aerodynamic Rims
Some aftermarket rims are designed with airflow in mind. These typically have smooth, enclosed designs that reduce turbulence, particularly at high speeds. They also reduce the unsprung weight of the car, improving acceleration and handling.
Refine Driving Habits for Aerodynamic Efficiency
13. Drive at Moderate Speeds
Aerodynamic drag increases exponentially with speed. For example, drag at 80 mph is significantly higher than at 60 mph. Driving at moderate speeds not only saves fuel but allows your car’s existing aerodynamic design to work more effectively.
14. Avoid Sudden Acceleration
Sudden bursts of speed create air resistance spikes. Smooth acceleration and steady cruising help maintain efficient airflow and reduce energy loss caused by drag.
15. Minimize Idling and Unnecessary Stops
Keeping your car in motion at a steady pace makes better use of its aerodynamics than constantly stopping and starting. Plan routes with fewer stops and anticipate traffic lights to maintain momentum.
Advanced Upgrades for Enthusiasts
16. Lower the Vehicle
Lowering your car’s suspension reduces the gap between the car and the road, decreasing the amount of air that flows underneath. This can reduce lift and turbulence, especially at high speeds. Be cautious not to lower the vehicle too much, as it can affect handling and ride comfort.
17. Replace Side Mirrors with Cameras
Large side mirrors create drag. Some modern vehicles replace them with small cameras to reduce profile and improve airflow. This upgrade may not be legal in all areas, so check local regulations before making changes.
18. Use Vortex Generators
Vortex generators are small fins that can be placed on specific parts of the car, like the roof or rear window. They help control how air flows off the surface, reducing separation and improving aerodynamic performance.
Benefits of a More Aerodynamic Car
Fuel Efficiency
The less effort it takes for your car to move through air, the less fuel it consumes. Improved aerodynamics can increase highway fuel economy by several miles per gallon.
Better Handling and Stability
Controlling airflow reduces lift and turbulence, which results in a more planted and stable ride, especially in windy conditions or at highway speeds.
Quieter Ride
Less turbulence means fewer wind noises, contributing to a more comfortable and quiet cabin experience.
Making a car more aerodynamic doesn’t always require expensive equipment or race-level modifications. Even simple steps like removing roof racks, keeping windows closed, or installing side skirts can have a noticeable impact. For enthusiasts and those who want to push efficiency even further, advanced modifications such as underbody panels, diffusers, and vortex generators offer more options. Whether your goal is to save fuel, increase stability, or enhance performance, improving aerodynamics is a practical and effective way to upgrade your driving experience.