Optimizing aerodynamics: Numerical flow analysis for drag and lift reduction in SUV designs

Efficient aerodynamics significantly impact your vehicle’s overall efficiency. Enhancing vehicle performance and fuel economy hinges on optimizing aerodynamics. Reduced drag equates to decreased resistance against air, requiring less energy for propulsion. This study employs numerical investigation utilizing ANSYS Fluent computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to identify the aerodynamic characteristics of an SUV. The goal is to gain insights into the vehicle’s aerodynamics. This study involves the creation of a 3D model of the SUV car, which is then subjected to simulated wind channel testing. ANSYS Fluent is employed to simulate the airflow around the car, enabling the estimation of drag and lift forces. The primary objective of the study is to achieve an optimal shape design for the SUV by varying the glass inclination angle within the range of 145° to 160°, and subsequently observe its effects. It has been observed that as the glass inclination angle increases, both drag and lift forces decrease gradually, with optimal results observed at a 160° inclination angle. Additionally, detailed observations of pressure and velocity fluctuations were made to further analyze flow phenomena. Adjusting the angle could potentially modify airflow around the vehicle, potentially minimizing drag by facilitating smooth airflow over the car, thus reducing resistance.