Pushing a unique VW Beetle to the limits.
Aerodynamic CFD Development
The Race to the Clouds. Competing in one of motorsport’s most demanding events, requires more than just a powerful engine.
Catesby Projects recently had the opportunity to 3D scan and provide aerodynamic development for an electric VW Beetle, built by Richard Morgan from Electric Classic Cars.
This one-of-a-kind VW Beetle, utilises four electric motors, one at each axle, working together to provide 800 bhp. The goal for the project was to improve the aerodynamic performance of the car to a level where it could compete in the infamous Pikes Peak hill climb in 2025.
Despite the car’s iconic design, the compromised aerodynamic characteristics and tight packaging create multiple constraints and a challenging quest for solutions to control the outstanding power produced.
Richard had already installed a large off the shelf wing, therefore one of the main goals was to generate enough front downforce to ensure the total aerodynamic load was evenly distributed. This is critical as the aerodynamic balance dictates the handling and stability of a vehicle. The aerodynamic centre of pressure is typically placed slightly behind the centre of gravity of a vehicle. In this instance, the idea was to provide a reasonably even distribution to then allow Richard to fine tune the balance on track.
Aerodynamic development
proved by numbers
Through a series of modifications, mainly the addition of a large front splitter and three pairs of underfloor strakes, Catesby Projects managed to not only shift the balance of the car to 41% but also increased the total downforce by 241%. The total drag acting on the vehicle has only been increased by 14% meaning we have tripled the car’s aerodynamic efficiency.
241%
Downforce Increase
14%
Drag Increase
-36.6%
Initial Balance (% Front)
41%
Final Balance (% Front)
Car floor Baseline version (top) and Developed version (below) Cp plot
Cp Scale
The downforce distribution plot (above) shows the differences in downforce produced along the length of the car between Baseline and the Developed car.
The pressure coefficient (Cp) plots of Baseline and Developed versions show the differences in pressure acting on the car. From the front to the rear, the splitter, floor strakes and rear wing generate significantly increased ‘suction’ pressure. These three components in conjunction with a reduction in ride height, are where we have managed to extract the most performance from the car. The mechanisms that were utilised are: changing from flow separation to flow expansion (splitter), generating strong vortices (underfloor strakes) and reducing flow separation on the rear wing by reducing angle of attack and reducing downwash behind the car.
Challenges
Are Meant To Be Conquered!
It is in our DNA to get excited about aerodynamic challenges that require clear solutions and that’s exactly how we felt when Richard and Electric Classic Cars shared their vision with us. We are confident the ECC team’s commitment and their project VW Beetle will conquer the gruelling hill climb and make many heads turn. Good Luck!