|
Have contacted a radiator specialist to see what can be done..I believe a dual pass radiator approximately 40cm shorter than the original should suffice..we can increase the capacity by encroaching on the space originally used by the mechanical fan, and possibly even increase the volume of the radiator (Along with using a dual pass with the "relocated" capacity pre cooling the hot coolant prior to passing to the front of the radiator)
With twin electric fans behind this should create more than enough cooling..
Of note, this would allow a huge height reduction in the front leading edge of the hood..possibly to only around 7.5cm (3 inches) above the standard fender height on the leading edge.....(Similar to the "airflow bullet truck" if you were to remove the front nosecone..)
We can not emulate the bullet trucks aero shape 100%, but some of the other aero he has used can be replicated on our vehicles fairly readily..such as the flat side panels (We have 50mm clearance to hit maximum width..meaning just over 1" clearance over the tyres is possible). I will be looking to use a hinged design to allow easy changing of tyres.
Side skirts on the trailers are definately a requirement, and i think with using some vortex generators, relocating exhaust stacks (To underneath the truck), aero mirrors, and a few other things we should be able to get a very decent improvement in airflow and therefore mileage..
Who knows...the Airflow Bullet truck with mainly aero and some friction reduction has gone from 5mpg to 13.4mpg...if I emulate 80% of that kit, and then also apply engine improvements..we may end up with very similar improvement levels...
|