This week I researched into the efficiencies of vehicles and components they typically use. I found out that vehicle mass, aerodynamics and mechanical efficiency play a major role in the energy a vehicle uses, which determines the range, speed and acceleration a vehicle can achieve.
Once a vehicle is at a constant speed, the main force pushing back the car is air resistance, which is the energy the car needs to maintain its speed. Also mechanical rolling and transmission inefficiencies have to be overcome.
In summary, I found that a vehicle should be as light as possible, ideally around 1000 kg's or less, that has a small frontal area to reduce air resistance and has no driveshaft (most front mount engine RWD vehicles) to reduce friction and energy losses in the vehicle to maximize range and efficiency.
These are the key points for an efficient vehicle for this more sustainable car project.
No comments:
Post a Comment