Fuel Economy, Hypermiling, EcoModding News and Forum - EcoModder.com - View Single Post - Designing/building front wheel skirts v.1.0 (Geo Metro)

MazdaMatt · 10-16-2008, 03:09 PM

I had an idea for a totally different and possibly sleeker version of front wheel skirts. I thought I'd post it here because I don't know if it is worth its own thread.

The idea is to use a stretchable fabric like spandex to flush-cover the wheel openings. Then, a frame is build around the wheel, attached at the knuckle/caliper (non-rotating assembly that turns with the wheel). As the wheel turns, the frame will push the stretchable cover outward. This would maintain a very smooth body shape, possibly even with attached flow the whole way.

The material would have to be climate-suitable. Maybe a stretchable neoprene would be an option?

If you've seen the BMW Concept "GINA", you'll get what I mean:

GINA

If this is worth a more lengthy discussion, mods feel free to create a thread.

10-16-2008, 03:09 PM	#47 (permalink)
MazdaMatt Master EcoModder Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: London, Ontario Posts: 1,096 2k2Prot5 - '02 Mazda Protege5 90 day: 33.82 mpg (US) Thanks: 0 Thanked 17 Times in 14 Posts	New concept in front wheel skirts I had an idea for a totally different and possibly sleeker version of front wheel skirts. I thought I'd post it here because I don't know if it is worth its own thread. The idea is to use a stretchable fabric like spandex to flush-cover the wheel openings. Then, a frame is build around the wheel, attached at the knuckle/caliper (non-rotating assembly that turns with the wheel). As the wheel turns, the frame will push the stretchable cover outward. This would maintain a very smooth body shape, possibly even with attached flow the whole way. The material would have to be climate-suitable. Maybe a stretchable neoprene would be an option? If you've seen the BMW Concept "GINA", you'll get what I mean: GINA If this is worth a more lengthy discussion, mods feel free to create a thread.