Skip to main content

Research Repository

Advanced Search

Investigation into the effect of the wake from a generic formula one car on a downstream vehicle

Newbon, J.J.; Sims-Williams, D.B.; Dominy, R.G.

Authors

J.J. Newbon

R.G. Dominy



Abstract

The aerodynamic performance of an open wheel race car is significantly affected when following another vehicle. This paper presents experimental and CFD results for a generic 25% scale Formula one car operating in the wake of another vehicle. Different approaches are investigated including a short-axial-length bluff body, two-car CFD simulations and single car CFD with a wake imposed on the inlet boundary. The following vehicle experienced downforce losses of over 60% with an accompanying rearwards shift of the aerodynamic centre of pressure which leads to handling imbalance The front wing loses both downforce and efficiency (L/D) while the underfloor and rear wing experience larger downforce losses than the front wing but their efficiencies remain approximately constant.

Citation

Newbon, J., Sims-Williams, D., & Dominy, R. (2014). Investigation into the effect of the wake from a generic formula one car on a downstream vehicle. In International vehicle aerodynamics conference : Holywell Park, Loughborough, UK 14-15 October 2014 (213-223)

Conference Name International Vehicle Aerodynamics Conference
Conference Location Loughborough, UK
Publication Date Oct 23, 2014
Deposit Date Dec 31, 2014
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Pages 213-223
Book Title International vehicle aerodynamics conference : Holywell Park, Loughborough, UK 14-15 October 2014.
Publisher URL http://store.elsevier.com/The-International-Vehicle-Aerodynamics-Conference/isbn-9780081001998/