Improving the under-car aerodynamics, Sedan.

[gclark8]

Has anyone given any thought to Improving the under-car aerodynamics, particularly in the Sedan?

As a former Citroen owner i am used to seeing a smooth bottom under a car.

Having just bought a Sedan, I noticed the big gap between the spare wheel well and the rear skirt. Has anyone considered filling that space with a sheet of plastic or cardboard to see the difference?

If successful, maybe someone could fabricate fiberglass panel to do the job.

[oscare003]

hmm sounds like a good project!! i dont drive my wifes aveo much so i dont kno the aerodynamics yet. but i have been looking to add some strut bars. nice car btw Gclark.

[Daox]

I've heard of a few guys doing this. The results vary depending on the car. Before even thinking about doing the back, I'd make sure there is a pan/tray under the engine bay.

[petrified.rabbit]

i agree, either front first, or all the underside.

[gclark8]

Past experience with a Citroen DS23 required the front underside fairing to be removed above 35 degrees Celsius. This increased airflow through the radiator, thus preventing the car overheating in our 45 degree summer days.

The Aveo 5 door Hatch has a drag coefficient of .36 and .326 for the sedan, with a small amount of streamlining this could be improved. see: 2011 CHEVROLET AVEO 2LT Sedan Automatic data in automobile-catalog.com

Keep the suggestions coming......

[Daox]

Well, if you can't cover up the engine bay, there really is little to no use covering the rear. Once the flow has been disturbed that much, it won't just smooth out over the back.

I am quite surprised to hear you had overheating problems with a bellypan on. There is plenty of space for air to escape out the wheel wells.

[gclark8]

Mabe someone with a
ScanGauge II - The 3-in-1 Automotive Computer


can do some experiments...

If you compare the CD of the sedan and hatch its the rear end that makes the difference.

[FASTRAKR]

I have an UltraGauge stuck in the mail right now, but after a little time with it I intend to try an undertray.

[petrified.rabbit]

I can see why the ds23 would need the pan removed for heat to escape, it had a cramp engine compartment (iirc it even had the spare tire in there?).

The aveo has a fairly empty engine bay in comparison and a larger grill opening. i would try a belly pan to see if the overheating occurs, i think it would do better. You are in a VERY hot climate though. Is the heat issue even while moving?

[Daox]

If you compare the CD of the sedan and hatch its the rear end that makes the difference.

I agree there. But, the airflow over the top and sides of the car is attached the whole way from the front to the back. If you put a buncha stuff on your hood to mess up the airflow, the rear end isn't going to matter much.