Gravity racer gallery - extreme aerodynamics
 

EDIT: split/copied this post from another thread. Some gorgeous examples of aero engineering from the big auto makers...

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Some of the big auto mfr's compete every year in "extreme" downhill gravity races - and it's a really big deal for them.

http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-st...p-1024x768.jpg
Volvo

http://www.carbodydesign.com/concept...%20Car%202.jpg
Volvo

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/3...pbox1218co.jpg
Lotus

http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/...dixon1.583.jpg
Nissan

http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/imag..._content02.jpg
Mazda

http://gizmag.com/pictures/4681_30090595001.jpg
Audi

http://gizmag.com/pictures/4681_300905100827.jpg
GM (Front)

http://gizmag.com/pictures/4681_30090595057.jpg
Bentley

http://gizmag.com/pictures/4681_300905101138.jpg
VW

http://gizmag.com/pictures/4681_300905100528.jpg
Nissan (A winning team)

So ya, it's a big slap in the face. They know how important aerodynamics are - they're using it on downhill races where top speeds are ~50mph IIRC. Yet, bricks come off the assembly lines... Feel free to split this post off if you want...

trebuchet03 -

From my POV, these events don't "compete" with their bread and butter products.

PS - The Bentley is GORGEOUS!

CarloSW2

Soap Box Derby on steroids.

Just pick one and fill it with lightweight batteries!

Am I the only one that would be scared to death in one of these?

Hell no! Sign me up :D


Okay, maybe the first Volvo one - but I'm not afraid to wear the rubber suit :D

DARN! No trikes! That BENTly is right up my alley!! {recumBENT!}

countersTrike

I tried to find some YouTube of these babies in action, but didn't have any luck. These are gorgeous machines.

I really like the first Nissan. It loosk like it would be awesome to ride in. I wonder how I apply for that job...

I'd love to see this event. I assume it's held in California though...