Fluid-Mechanics-Based Aerodynamic Design of Electric Vehicles

Abstract

As the range requirements for electric vehicles (EVs) continue to increase, reducing air resistance has become a feasible approach for vehicle energy conservation optimization. Based on the relevant theories of fluid mechanics, this paper studies the aerodynamic characteristics of EVs and their aerodynamic design and optimization methods. Considering from the basic principles of aerodynamics, it delves into the formation mechanism of drag and lift, and combines the continuity equation and the Navier-Stokes equation to indicate the theoretical basis of the vehicle outflow problem. Focusing on the key aerodynamic areas of the vehicle body, the principles of the impact on the aerodynamic performance at the front, rear, chassis, wheels, etc. were studied, and the mainstream optimization methods based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) were summarized. A comparative analysis of typical low-drag EVs was conducted to summarize the practical effects and engineering characteristics of different design strategies in reducing drag coefficients. The results of the study show that a reasonable streamlined body design, a flattened chassis, and detailed aerodynamic optimization can significantly reduce drag coefficient and increase energy utilization efficiency. This study provides theoretical basis and engineering reference for the aerodynamic design of low wind resistance in EVs.