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-stuv/Volvo-Extreme-Gravity-Car-Woman-Top-1024x768.jpg)
Volvo
![](http://www.carbodydesign.com/concept-cars/2005/10-06-volvo-extreme-gravity-car/Volvo%20Extreme%20Gravity%20Car%202.jpg)
Volvo
![](http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/3677/lotussoapbox1218co.jpg)
Lotus
![](http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2005/10/26/automobiles/26dixon1.583.jpg)
Nissan
![](http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/mazdaspeed/shows41/img_mazdaspd_motorsports_shows41_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...