Quote:
Originally Posted by Honda
Let say we hove 2 identical cars that weigh 3000 LBS, one has light rims and the other has heavy rims with rear seat delete or any other component to make it stay at 3000 LBS.
Will the fuel economy be affected comparing the 2 cars?
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There are 3 weights that you need to contend with and consider in a car design and they are:
#1. Sprung weight
#2. Unsprung weight
#3. Rotational mass
They all have an effect on overall handling and performance. However Unsprung weight will have more of an effect than sprung weight. Rotational mass will have a bigger effect on the acceleration or your car and its overall quickness. Hence is why some cars opt for reduced mass flywheels and lighter drivelines and axles such as the carbon composite or aluminum options.
If you are in a position where you need to make a choice to reduce weight somewhere always first look to reduce unsprung weight then go from there depending on your goals and objectives.
GH
