Prius Roof Antenna Delete

[Xist]

Cd, planes still taper more at the end than the front.

[Hersbird]

Originally Posted by Cd

I think the public has had it drilled into their minds that a pointed front is always best. When I look at jets and rockets, I can see how that people could think this, since the front is pointed and the back end is an open flat end.

The public in the 30's had a better idea of the right shape.

[Vman455]

Came across this article on antenna drag last night.

[Rishar]

This summer I had planned on removing mine. My idea was to run antennae wire (or speaker wire...something for a test anyway) from the antennae signal wire, seal the hole, run the wire straight back into the space where the hatch opens into, to the sides, then back up and under the coverings for the roof rack. Then would just need to cover the small wire running to the hatch, unless I can run it from the inside...hadn't looked.

Not sure how well it'll pick up a signal, but still want to try it.

Something kind of like this. Photochop away!

[redpoint5]

I was thinking I'd give up on removing the antenna, but I like Rishar's idea, especially if it improves HD radio reception. For some reason it comes in very poorly on the Prius compared to the in-window antenna on the Camry.

I was also thinking of changing the antenna shape to be more teardrop, but I find it interesting that the "separating plate" has less drag than the "streamline profile".



This morning I removed the rear wiper and motor. I have not used it a single time, even in a downpour. The window sheds water well enough to see approaching vehicles, and besides, the people behind need to mind me, not the other way around. The Prius has a backup camera, too, making it less important to have rearward visibility. I've also got pipe insulation blocking 100% of the lower grill.