GM Small Scale Model Wind Tunnel Testing

GM?s new, 35,000-square-foot Reduced Scale Wind Tunnel aerodynamically tests clay models up to 40 percent of the scale of a vehicle. It is equipped with a conveyor-style rolling road system that simulates real-world highway driving conditions up to a top speed of 155 mph. Testing reduced-sized vehicles on a simulated road allows GM aerodynamic engineers to reduce wind drag in a full-size vehicle design. Advanced 3D printing machines create underbodies and engine blocks that are detailed and to scale for the reduced sized clay models. Working suspensions with spinning wheels allow aerodynamic engineers to better examine how airflow affects a vehicle?s underbody while in motion, resulting in quieter cars and trucks that can cost customers less to operate. The new aerodynamic test facility is located next to GM?s full-scale wind tunnel that has been in operation since 1980. Together, the facilities give GM a competitive advantage in testing capacity and capabilities.