Quote:
Originally Posted by Isaac Zachary
I do get the general idea of what people are getting at. Aerodynamics don't have as much of an effect at slower speeds as they do at higher speeds (in Earth's atmosphere or in any other fluid). But on the other hand, the extent to which they have a noticeable effect and whether that effect is worthwhile or not depends on both the vehicle and driver in question.
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This is spot on. People tend to exaggerate when they retell a story. So the facts get blown all out of proportion.
Most of us in this community know that mechanical drag is a linear function, whereas aero drag is exponential. There is a point where the aero drag exceeds the mechanical drag. Where that point is depends on the vehicle.
Below that point, the aero drag will be lesser than the mechanical drag. But there will still be some aero drag. So it can still benefit from aerodynamic improvements. Likewise, above that point there is still some mechanical drag. So even at high speeds, the car can still benefit from reduced rolling resistance. So it's not as cut and dried as people like to think.
That said, it would be wise to prioritize based on your situation. Pick the low-hanging fruit first, then move up the branches if you're still hungry.