Ford Ups Aerodynamics on F-150

Ford is upping the ante on aerodynamics and fuel efficiency in the 2015 F-150 with new aero curtains that reduce wind drag by guiding airflow across the front wheels.

Air curtain technology allows air to flow through a vent underneath the headlamps and out around the wheel. As a result, airflow is smoother at the front wheel and down the side of the truck with the air curtain, versus without it.

By optimizing the aerodynamic design of F-150, Ford designers and engineers reduced drag to help F-150 deliver a best-in-class gasoline EPA-estimated rating of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway when equipped with the 2.7-liter EcoBoost® V6 engine.1

While not obvious to the eye, rotating wheels are a major source of drag. Enclosing the wheels in skirts to smooth the flow isn’t necessarily practical or attractive, so Ford adopted a different approach.

Horizontal slots underneath the headlamps channel air from the front of the truck through ducting to openings in the wheel wells – directing it across the outer surface of the wheel and tire. The wall of high-speed air works much like a skirt to reduce drag, while still leaving the alloy wheels fully exposed.

• Other F-150 aerodynamic efficiency improvements include:
  Flush-mounted windshield eliminates need for molding that would disrupt smooth airflow
• Tailgate top is designed to act as a spoiler, giving air that flows off the roof a place to land before smoothly trailing off – reducing turbulence behind the truck
• Cargo box is narrower than the cab, with no reduction in box volume, which enhances airflow, while a trim piece prevents air from getting trapped between cab and box
• Rear corners including taillamps are precisely angled so air breaks off cleanly – reducing turbulence behind the truck, and
• Duct under headlamp channels air through to the wheelhousing and reduces the wake generated from the wheel.

Category: Featured, General Update