Fuel Economy, Hypermiling, EcoModding News and Forum - EcoModder.com - View Single Post - Project Extended Pop-Top Aerodynamic Camper Shell ('99 Tacoma)

gone7 · 10-03-2012, 08:04 PM

Very nice project, and practical too.

I am wondering about your goals with regard to aerodynamics. It would seem prudent to consider lowering the vehicle or creating proper air-direction techniques (particularly around the wheels) to keep air-flow controlled and released from the vehicle as it moves along.

Which brings me to the issue of the bed area. Except for your particular desires, one does not need to worry about the height of the back portion as long as it is no higher than the cab, because the cab has already cut thru the air in that area. The only concern is where to begin the taper for proper air release after that deflection.

One must also consider the effects of tapering from the sides in helping the overall air-control. (Will that be done within the lenght of the bed or after?)

Finally, with regard to aerodynamics, it appears clear that the frontal area means more than just about anything else. That is where the "push" is, and I believe that push is more difficult than release.

Thanks, and keep up the great work.

10-03-2012, 08:04 PM	#66 (permalink)
gone7 gone Join Date: Apr 2012 Posts: 98 Lincoln #4 - '93 Lincoln Town Car Executive Thanks: 72 Thanked 7 Times in 7 Posts	Very nice project, and practical too. I am wondering about your goals with regard to aerodynamics. It would seem prudent to consider lowering the vehicle or creating proper air-direction techniques (particularly around the wheels) to keep air-flow controlled and released from the vehicle as it moves along. Which brings me to the issue of the bed area. Except for your particular desires, one does not need to worry about the height of the back portion as long as it is no higher than the cab, because the cab has already cut thru the air in that area. The only concern is where to begin the taper for proper air release after that deflection. One must also consider the effects of tapering from the sides in helping the overall air-control. (Will that be done within the lenght of the bed or after?) Finally, with regard to aerodynamics, it appears clear that the frontal area means more than just about anything else. That is where the "push" is, and I believe that push is more difficult than release. Thanks, and keep up the great work.