One of the signature features of modern race cars is the rear wing. It’s a key component in aerodynamic packages, allowing drivers to significantly improve downforce and grip on the track. In aerodynamics, the wing is often referred to as an airfoil for automotive or aviation applications. Learn more about the defining characteristics of airfoils and how they can benefit your vehicle.
How Do Airfoils Produce Downforce Or Lift?
An airfoil like this one on a BMW M2 generates downforce by creating a low-pressure zone on the bottom of the wing.
When looking at the striking rear wing on the back of a sports car, you'll notice the distinctive curved shape. This streamlined structure can affect the air moving around it. In motorsports, the airfoil is designed to speed up the air moving underneath. This faster-moving air creates a low-pressure zone, while slower, higher-pressure air sits on top. The end result is negative lift, better known as downforce.
Turn your car’s wing upside down, and you have the basic shape used to create lift in airplanes. The faster air creates a low-pressure zone on top, while the high-pressure zone is underneath. This pressure difference generates lift.
Top Considerations Of Airfoil Design
A properly designed rear wing, using tools like computational fluid dynamics software, improves downforce and stability at high speeds.
Automotive engineers aren’t just interested in maximizing downforce. Their ultimate goal is to create an efficient and balanced aerodynamic setup to achieve the best performance possible. Specifically, the lift-to-drag ratio (L/D) is a primary consideration. Through iterative design and tools like computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, engineers can optimize downforce and minimize drag.
When properly designed, the airfoil offers the following benefits:
- Increased downforce allows for better handling through tight corners.
- Reduced drag at high speeds helps you achieve higher top speeds.
- Enhanced grip improves stability, giving drivers more control and confidence for high-speed track driving.
This Verus Engineering rear wing for a Toyota Supra was expertly designed and tested to optimize performance.
To enjoy these benefits, you need the proper wing for your car. In addition to the physical shape of the airfoil, you must consider the height of the wing. If placed too high, you may decrease the low-pressure zone under the wing and reduce performance. If placed too low, the airflow becomes choked, greatly diminishing performance.
In other words, you need an expertly designed and tested wing developed by aerodynamics experts skilled in CFD. This is the reason why so many drivers turn to Verus Engineering.
Get High-Performance Airfoils From Verus Engineering
Turn to Verus Engineering for the best aerodynamics for your vehicle. We design high-performance rear wings and complete aero kits for a wide range of models. Find all the aftermarket parts you need to lower track times in a balanced and efficient manner. Check out our new releases and connect to our social media feeds for the latest updates..
What Is An Airfoil And How Does It Impact Your Car’s Performance?