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Car spoilers : truths and myths
Spoilers are a popular accessory for many car enthusiasts . On top of being stylish , many people believe they can improve a car ’ s speed and aerodynamics . Here ’ s what the science says .
How spoilers work The spoiler ’ s effect comes from the same physical laws that drive aviation , but it works in the opposite direction . While an airplane wing lifts the aircraft as it accelerates , the spoiler on a car exerts a downward
force , pressing the vehicle downward and improving traction . It also decreases the drag arising from air turbulence at the vehicle ’ s rear .
Spoiler effects The spoiler ’ s aerodynamic effect is indisputable . But its effectiveness is proportional to speed . For example , a Formula 1 racing car benefits most from a spoiler because it ’ s lightweight and frequently exceeds 185 miles per hour .
Cars intended for consumer use are much heavier and subject to legal speed limits . For these types of vehicles , the downward thrust effect of a spoiler is negligible . However , spoilers reduce drag , which helps reduce fuel consumption . This effect is especially true if the manufacturer installed the spoiler and tested it in a wind tunnel , which is often the case for high-end cars . n
ROBERT HUTSON Trev Simmons Sales Representative Phone : 229-985-6603 | Cell : 229-456-2344 Toll Free : 1-888-509-1616 2316-1st Ave SE , Moultrie , Georgia 31776 • trev @ roberthutson . com
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