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http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/2/AmericanFlag.jpg Automakers use low RRc tires and aerodynamics to improve fuel economy. (cleanmpg.com/forums/showthread.php?p=231223)

http://www.youtube.com/v/gBvD5MxLljc&hl=en&fs=1Wayne Gerdes - CleanMPG (cleanmpg.com) - Sept. 3, 2009

A simplistic overview...

Several automakers, including GM, Chrysler and Nissan, have already announced plans to roll out electric cars in the near future. With triple digit fuel economy claims on cars like the Chevrolet Volt, how will these manufacturers get the wheels rolling?

One factor in getting great fuel economy for electric cars is tires. The industry rule of thumb says for every 10% reduction of rolling resistance, the fuel economy improves 1 to 2 percent. Hi-tech tires, like the new Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max, feature an energy saving compound that improves the rolling resistance without sacrificing traction or tread wear.

Aerodynamics also plays an important role in increasing mileage. The more aerodynamic a car is, the easier it can cut through the air and the longer the battery will last. It is also one of the most inexpensive ways to boost fuel economy.

Hi Wayne,

The funny thing is the automakers have known about aerodynamics and its effect on fuel economy for years. Yet it wasn't until the early nineties that they finally got serious about cutting the aero drag on their vehicles.

As far as I'm concerned the U.S. companies are at least ten years behind where they should be today. There shouldn't be a new car leaving a dealership with a Cd over .32 today. Like the lady said improving aerodynamics is the easiest way to improve fuel economy.

With some of the new engine and drive line technology coming on line by 2012 we should see at least 15 - 20% fuel economy improvement in the fleet averages.

Why is this exclusive to BEVs? The exact same things can be applied to ANY vehicle.

Hi Wayne,

The funny thing is the automakers have known about aerodynamics and its effect on fuel economy for years. Yet it wasn't until the early nineties that they finally got serious about cutting the aero drag on their vehicles.


For only a few years, then the auto stylists took over again and aerodynamics got thrown back out the window as they started churning out new models with the high Cd flat-fronted brick look and used more powerful engines to compensate for the higher drag. Just compare the current Camaro to the previous generation. Now, finally they are having to revisit aerodynamics again. We'll see how long it lasts this time before looks wins out over function.

Why don't they develop a tire pump system that automatically reinflates the tires when the car is plugged in?