Stellantis has introduced its advanced Moving Ground Plane (MGP) technology—part of a $29.5 million investment—at its research and technical center in Auburn Hills, Michigan. The newly upgraded wind tunnel can now analyze and reduce airflow resistance from wheels and tires, which Stellantis notes can contribute up to 10% of total aerodynamic drag in real-world conditions.
Improving aerodynamic efficiency is essential for extending the driving range of EVs, as it allows for longer ranges on a single charge. This innovation not only benefits customers with greater EV range but also offers the potential to reduce battery size, leading to cost and weight savings.
“Range is a top priority for customers moving toward cleaner, battery-powered mobility,” stated Mark Champine, senior vice president and head of North America engineering technical centers. “This investment is crucial; by cutting drag, we enhance electric-vehicle range and, ultimately, the overall customer driving experience.
According to Stellantis, the upgrade to the company’s innovative aero-acoustic wind tunnel simulates real-world travel while allowing test vehicles to remain static. Belts suspended by cushions of air enable wheel movement at all four corners, while a fifth belt runs longitudinally beneath the vehicle, mimicking on-road travel conditions. This realistic simulation allows for more precise testing and aerodynamic improvements.
“For EVs, a range increase enabled by improved aerodynamics can lead to potential battery-size reductions,” said Champine. “This has positive implications from more efficient packaging-to-weight savings that, in the end, will enhance the customer experience.” The upgraded wind tunnel also provides a valuable complement to virtual development tools.
“This apparatus is a great addition to virtual tools, which may not account for factors such as tire deformation that can compromise aerodynamics,” said Champine. “With this technology we can replicate such conditions and capture real-time data to explore solutions.”
The new facility also adds vital automation capability. Changes to wheelbase and track testing, which can take as much as two hours in conventional wind tunnels, can now be done in minutes.
The combined outcome of real-time data collection and increased automation: increased speed to market, according to Stellantis.