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Old 01-29-2012, 05:27 PM   #2 (permalink)
ERTW
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Join Date: Jan 2012
Location: Toronto
Posts: 130

Bu - '08 Chevrolet Malibu LS
90 day: 32.29 mpg (US)
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I'm using the 2013 Malibu as a template, and to quantify changes.

It snowed the other day, and I took advantage by driving it on the highway. High energy air clears away snow, while draggy low energy air leaves snow where it is. You can see there are several areas of concern. Air separates from the leading edge of the hood due to the grille. Separation THAT early on is NOT a good thing! Most of the C pillar has separated flow. It appears that air separates mid way along the roof (and leaves the back window dirty/snowy). And predictably, the dead area at the bottom of the rear windshield.

I know snow is sticky, and doesn't show exact pressures, and I'll follow up with tuft testing when the weather warms up.

My first aero mod is duct taping the front end. I know, it's gaudy, and it's more proof of concept as this stage. I'd like to fiberglass the front fascia and paint it - it's worth around 14 counts. The 2013 Malibu saw a 39 count drop in Cd just from smoothing the front end (2/3 of the total improvement).

Next, I'd like to add a full underbody. I did a quick search for coroplast, and coincidentally, the distributor is a stone's throw from my work! I also plan rear wheel fairings. I like the look - it reminds me of the '30s and '40s cars. That should easily be another 20 counts.

If I can get air to wrap around the C pillar, the Cd will drop further. I'll look into air tabs and spoilers for a clean break away.
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Last edited by ERTW; 01-29-2012 at 05:38 PM..
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