Somerset-based British sports cars maker Ariel has revealed the new Aero-P Atom concept that ditches drag-generating fixed wings and instead uses ground-effect technology to produce downforce at any speed, including stationary. Standing for “Aerodynamic Efficiency Requirements & Optimisation Project”, the concept is the outcome of ongoing collaboration between the automaker, TotalSim and Delta Motorsport.
According to Ariel’s Director Simon Saunders, “The aims of AERO-P were to minimise aerodynamic drag with innovative aero concepts, to reduce comparative CO2 emissions, while at the same time improving vehicle stability and safety.” Achieving the results by using both passive and active aerodynamics, the team also see applications for engine cooling efficiency for electric and hybrid vehicles.
Drawing inspirations from banned racing cars, namely Jim Hall’s 1970 Chaparral 2J Sucker Car and the Gordon Murray Brabham BT46B Fan Car of 1978, the Aero-P Atom has two lightweight, electrically-powered high-speed fans powered by a stand-alone battery allowing either manual or automatic application. Mounted underneath the car in tandem with rubber skirts added to the bottom of the chassis that seal the ground beneath the car, the fans produce suction that removes air while creating downforce when it is most needed, such as from the start, when cornering or under braking.
The concept sounds very promising, but Saunders cautions that bringing the complex system to a production reality requires “a lot more work to do” and we have a feeling that this is unlikely to happen. Still, some lucky attendees will see the Aero-P vacuum concept in action during the Low Carbon Vehicle Show, on September 14-15 at Millbrook Proving Grounds.
