Active Pneumatic Drag Reduction Technology for Vehicles: Flow Control Mechanisms and Drag Reduction Performance

Abstract

As the vehicle speed increases, the impact of aerodynamic resistance on vehicle energy consumption becomes increasingly significant, with the vast majority coming from the pressure difference resistance caused by the low-pressure recirculation zone at the rear. This article systematically summarizes the core fluid dynamics mechanism of active aerodynamic drag reduction in vehicles, focuses on analyzing typical technical paths, and evaluates the comprehensive effects of various technologies in drag reduction rate, energy consumption optimization, handling stability, and thermal management by combining specific research cases and actual vehicle application data. Research has shown that synthetic jets can effectively delay flow separation, achieving a maximum drag reduction rate of 6.4%; AGS can achieve approximately 7.85% reduction in wind resistance and 5.20% improvement in fuel consumption on hybrid models; Active air suspension significantly improves range by reducing vehicle height; Finally, it was compared that there are essential differences in the control objectives and triggering logic of active aerodynamic strategies between civilian sedans and F1 racing cars. This study provides a theoretical basis for the selection and integration of active aerodynamic drag reduction technology.