In the analysis and optimization vehicle front and tail, suspension, tires and wheels are most important. So far, full-size clay models have been used to test and optimize aerodynamics. "Wind tunnel tests are very expensive. The clay models are deteriorate in the wind tunnel and often have to be modified ", explains María García-Navas, one of the engineers in the development and aerodynamics department at SEAT. "In addition, the computing power of the BSC supercomputer now allows us to include more parameters and see how the airflow within the rims behaves when the wheels spin. The goal is to reduce the gap between simulation and reality, "she adds.

More Information: seatpress.co.uk