OPTIMIZING VEHICLE DESIGN FOR EFFICIENCY: PRESSURE GRADIENT AND AERODYNAMICS EVALUATION USING CFD

The evaluation of aerodynamics plays a critical role in the performance, fuel efficiency, and stability of vehicles. Understanding how air interacts with the surface of a moving vehicle is essential to optimize designs for minimal drag and improved handling. This study investigates the aerodynamic behavior and pressure gradient distribution around a moving vehicle using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. The objective is to analyze how different flow conditions impact the pressure distribution on the vehicle's body, which, in turn, affects the drag force and overall vehicle performance. The research specifically focuses on identifying regions of high-pressure gradients, which are crucial in understanding vehicle stability, drag, and the potential for turbulence. Results demonstrate significant variations in pressure distribution depending on vehicle speed, shape, and surrounding environment. The study concludes by proposing potential design modifications that could reduce drag and improve vehicle efficiency.