OEMs and low-drag cars: What gives?

[Vman455]

That's what I'm talking about. Audi introduces the redesigned A4, and the drag coefficient is improved from Cd .26 to Cd .23. Mercedes introduces the redesigned S-class, and the drag coefficient is improved from Cd .26 to Cd .24. Chevy introduces the redesigned Volt, and the drag coefficient is improved from Cd .28 to...Cd .28. What?

[gone-ot]

Knowing GM habits, the "old" 0.28 Cd was probably "fudged" and the "new" 0.28 Cd is now maybe/almost/close-to correct (wink,wink)?

[aerohead]

I think we need to check the Koolaid in Warren,Michigan.

[UltArc]

Originally Posted by Vman455

Fineness ratio--yes, that would be a big part of it. Those large luxury sedans tend to be very long, and that must make lower drag coefficients more easily achievable.

Despite what Koenigsegg says, the Regera is a hybrid--three electric motors, 2 driving the rear wheels and 1 on the crankshaft; electric-only propulsion up to 30mph and gas propulsion above that. Where it varies is in the true single-speed, non-variable transmission that directly couples the gas engine to the rear wheels at the final drive's 2.85:1 ratio. But, as Car & Driver notes, this system is almost identical to what Honda uses in the Accord hybrid.

Apparently, Lamborghini showed a car this week to owners, but we won't get to find out what it is until next year.

Very interesting! Though I wouldn't really say they note "almost identical" when they actually say "Honda’s Accord hybrid and Accord plug-in hybrid use single-speed transmissions that are similar in concept." I had no idea Honda was using such an interesting system, though I wouldn't be inclined to read up on it with the name they gave it.

I look forward to more of these unique drivetrains coming into play, and more methods to combine power without the disadvantages traditionally seen.

[Vman455]

Yes, poetic license. But they are much more similar than Koenigsegg would like to admit, I'm sure. Add two wheel motors to the Honda and replace the clutch with a hydraulic coupling, and you have the Koenigsegg--minus the gargantuan V8 (it must be a kick in the pants to drive...).

[Fat Charlie]

Originally Posted by UltArc

Could there be an aspect we are missing?
...
Just spitballing, really, but there may be something to it- compromise your cars purpose, compromise your CD?

Originally Posted by freebeard

'Poors' shouldn't get to have what the better people have.

Efficiency is a premium feature and its effectiveness is judged by the marketing department.
Economy is for the have-nots and is judged by the bean counters.