Ford Implements Innovative New Wind Tunnel to Test and Refine 2024 Mustang
For years, wind tunnels have played a crucial role in designing and testing vehicles with optimal aerodynamic conditions, putting energy efficiency to the test. Building upon this tradition, Ford took wind tunnel technology to the next level by integrating a vehicle-size treadmill into its latest innovation. This cutting-edge technology is instrumental in the development of Ford’s next-generation production vehicles, including the highly anticipated all-new Mustang Dark Horse.
Referred to as the Rolling Road Wind Tunnel (RRWT), this advanced facility can simulate wind and road surface speeds of up to 200 mph. Its primary purpose is to support comprehensive testing for efficient and high-performance vehicles across the entire Ford lineup. This includes not only the next-generation of Ford electric, hybrid, and conventional internal combustion vehicles, but also other innovative models that embody the brand’s current commitment to performance and sustainability. By harnessing the power of the RRWT, Ford is paving the way for the future of automotive design and engineering.
The RRWT offers significant advantages over earlier wind tunnel designs, particularly in terms of providing highly accurate data on wind drag and downforce. These factors play a crucial role in optimizing vehicle range and efficiency. With the RWWT, Ford can conduct more comprehensive in-house testing that closely simulates real-word driving conditions, enabling a more efficient and cost-effective design process. Using the RRWT allows Ford to obtain precise measurements and insights that are essential for enhancing the performance and aerodynamics of their vehicles. This advanced testing capability not only helps improve overall efficiency, but it also contributes to reducing design costs and shortening the time it takes to bring new vehicles to market.
“The closer we can get to reality in the lab, the better and faster we can create more energy efficient vehicles with great on-road and track stability. Testing while the wheels and tires move is instrumental to improving aerodynamics for track-ready vehicles, like Mustang Dark Horse which has to balance both aerodynamic drags and downforce,” said Jim Toth, North America Wind Tunnels Supervisor.
The cutting-edge rolling road system consists of five belts, allowing Ford to replicate the real-world drag in a rolling road aerodynamic tunnel. This innovative approach brings the road to the vehicle, thus eliminating the need to transport the vehicle for on-road testing. The system is designed to assess and optimize the aerodynamic performance of vehicles. Each wheel is placed on an individual belt, creating the first of four belts. There’s an additional belt, a fifth and larger one that runs beneath the center of the vehicle. To facilitate seamless testing, Ford uses a crane to transition between the five-belt and single-belt system. The single belt, capable of operating at speeds up to 200 mph, enables a new level of testing for high-speed performance vehicles.
In the meantime, experience all that the current Ford Mustang has to offer here at Wayne Akers Ford. Get familiar with Ford’s best features, including the latest infotainment systems, crisp graphics, exciting powertrains, and advanced safety technology. Follow Wayne Akers Ford on social media to stay up to date with the latest Ford news and offers.
Photo Source/Copyright: Ford