Articles tagged with "aerodynamics"
Frontier supercomputer uncovers why worn turbine blades drain jet fuel
Researchers from the University of Melbourne, GE Aerospace, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory utilized the Frontier supercomputer—the world’s first exascale system for open science—to investigate how microscopic surface damage on high-pressure turbine (HPT) blades affects jet engine performance. Operating under extreme temperatures exceeding 3,600°F (2,000°C), turbine blades develop surface roughness from erosion, oxidation, and wear, which increases aerodynamic losses and heat transfer. This degradation reduces fuel efficiency, durability, and necessitates more frequent maintenance. The team conducted unprecedentedly detailed simulations with 10–20 billion grid points, revealing that traditional models of roughness effects based on simple geometries do not accurately capture the complex fluid dynamics in turbine blades. The study found that surface roughness accelerates the transition from laminar to turbulent flow on turbine blades, significantly increasing heat transfer and aerodynamic losses. These effects lead to reduced engine efficiency and shorter component lifespans, thereby increasing fuel consumption and maintenance needs. The researchers employed direct
energyturbine-bladesjet-engine-efficiencysupercomputer-simulationmaterials-degradationaerodynamicsheat-transferNASA jet hits 144 mph with new wing design to cut drag and fuel use
NASA researchers conducted a successful high-speed taxi test of a new wing design called Crossflow Attenuated Natural Laminar Flow (CATNLF), aimed at improving aircraft efficiency by reducing drag and fuel consumption. The test involved mounting a 3-foot-tall scale model of the CATNLF wing vertically on the underside of an F-15B testbed jet, which reached speeds of approximately 144 mph (231 km/h) without taking off at Edwards Air Force Base. This milestone allows NASA to evaluate the wing’s aerodynamic performance in real flight conditions before proceeding to actual flight tests. The CATNLF technology focuses on increasing laminar flow—the smooth movement of air close to the aircraft surface—thereby reducing friction and drag. Previous computational studies indicated that applying this design to commercial aircraft like the Boeing 777 could yield fuel savings of up to 10 percent, translating to millions of dollars saved annually. NASA’s approach of using a scale model on an existing F-15 jet offers a cost-effective
energyaerospacefuel-efficiencyaerodynamicsNASAaircraft-technologydrag-reductionYou Can’t Buy This, America (Unless You’re Tearing It Down): Xiaomi YU7 Max - CleanTechnica
At CES, the largest US technology show, Chinese automakers showcased a strong presence with advanced electric vehicles (EVs), including the Xiaomi YU7 Max, exhibited by Caresoft. The YU7 Max stands out for its combination of sporty design and functional engineering, achieving an impressive aerodynamic drag coefficient of 0.235. Its design draws comparisons to luxury models like the Porsche Cayenne and Ferrari Purosangue but offers similar performance at a significantly lower price. The vehicle features high-quality interior materials, spacious seating with zero-gravity reclining seats that include heating, ventilation, and massage functions, as well as practical amenities like an onboard refrigerator and underseat storage. Xiaomi’s strength lies particularly in its infotainment technology, with a wide, clear display positioned at the base of the windshield that reduces eye strain, a sharp and responsive center control screen, and a removable rear passenger screen. The car supports magnetic mounting points for customizable accessories and offers alternative physical controls for those who prefer buttons over
energyelectric-vehiclesautomotive-technologyXiaomiinfotainment-systemsaerodynamicsvehicle-designRV Show Season Is Here, & Manufacturers Are Thinking About EVs - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica highlights the evolving landscape of the RV industry as manufacturers begin to prioritize efficiency, particularly in response to the challenges of towing with electric vehicles (EVs). Traditional RV construction methods are being replaced by innovative designs such as Liv’s 100% composite trailers, which eliminate wood to reduce weight and increase durability—critical factors for EV towing where every pound affects range. Additionally, aerodynamic designs like those from Bowlus demonstrate that streamlining trailers can significantly improve EV range, potentially more so than adding powered axles or extra batteries to trailers. The piece also underscores the practical challenges EV owners face when towing, especially given the current limitations of the charging infrastructure. Many new electric truck owners lack towing experience, and the design of EV charging stations—often requiring back-in parking—complicates charging while towing. Workshops like Ford’s Towing Boot Camp provide essential skills for these drivers, helping them manage trailer handling and charging logistics. Overall, the article suggests that while the RV industry is beginning
energyelectric-vehiclesEV-towingcomposite-materialsaerodynamicsbattery-efficiencyRV-industryHomemade drone screams to 408 mph as father-son duo reclaims world record
A South African father-and-son team, Luke and Mike Bell, have reclaimed the Guinness World Record for the fastest battery-powered remote-controlled quadcopter drone by achieving an average speed of 408 mph (657.59 km/h) with their Peregreen V4 model. The record-setting flight took place on December 11, 2025, in Cape Town, just a month after an Australian engineer briefly held the title with a 389 mph drone. The Peregreen V4’s speed was verified through two runs in opposite directions to negate wind effects, with an upwind speed recorded at 372 mph (599 km/h), marking a 14 km/h improvement over their previous model. The Peregreen V4’s performance is the result of five months of intensive redesign, combining digital simulations, structural stress testing, and real-world experimentation. The drone’s body, camera mount, and landing gear were 3D-printed as a single piece using a Bambu Lab H2D dual-extr
robotdronebrushless-motors3D-printingaerodynamicsengineeringquadcopterPhotos: Toyota’s new 671 horsepower hypercar to compete in Qatar endurance race
Toyota has unveiled the TR010 Hybrid, its new hypercar set to compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship starting in 2026. This model replaces the GR010 Hybrid, which secured victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2021 and 2022. The TR010 features a completely redesigned aerodynamic exterior, including integrated front wheel arches, updated headlights, redesigned sidepods, a larger rear wing, and an improved diffuser to enhance downforce and stability. These changes were made using evolution tokens permitted under Hypercar regulations, marking Toyota’s first major redesign since 2023. Despite the new bodywork, the powertrain remains the same—a twin-turbo V6 engine powering the rear wheels combined with a hybrid system on the front axle—delivering a total output capped at approximately 671 horsepower due to Balance of Performance rules. Alongside the new car, Toyota has restructured its motorsport operations, transitioning its European racing division to TOYOTA RACING GmbH and ending
energyhybrid-technologyautomotive-engineeringendurance-racingaerodynamicsToyota-TR010motorsport-innovationRenault Filante Record 2025 Raises The Efficiency Bar For Electric Cars - CleanTechnica
The Renault Filante Record 2025 is an experimental electric car designed to push the boundaries of efficiency rather than speed, reflecting a shift in automotive priorities toward intelligent travel distance. Drawing on Renault’s extensive experience in Formula One racing since 1977, where aerodynamic efficiency is meticulously optimized, the Filante Record leverages advanced design techniques and materials to minimize energy consumption. The project involved close collaboration with Ligier for vehicle construction and Michelin for ultra-low rolling resistance tires, emphasizing real-world testing of technical choices on energy use. A key focus of the Filante Record 2025 is weight reduction, inspired by Colin Chapman’s philosophy of “simplify then add lightness.” With batteries constituting over half the vehicle’s mass, Renault aimed to keep the car’s weight around 1,000 kg (2,204 lb) using carbon fiber, composites, and optimized structures. Aerodynamic efficiency was also critical, measured by the SCx value (frontal area times drag coefficient). Initial wind tunnel tests
electric-vehiclesenergy-efficiencyRenault-Filante-Recordbattery-technologylightweight-materialsaerodynamicssustainable-mobilityPhotos: Renault EV hits 626 miles on single charge, sets new efficiency record
Renault achieved a significant electric vehicle milestone at the end of 2025 with its single-seater prototype, the Filante Record 2025, which traveled 626 miles (1,008 km) on a single charge. The test, conducted at a Moroccan high-speed proving ground, lasted under 10 hours with an average speed of 102 km/h (63 mph). Remarkably, the car retained 11 percent battery capacity at the finish, suggesting a potential total range of up to 673 miles (1,083 km). The prototype’s design drew inspiration from historic Renault record-setters and incorporated advanced aerodynamic refinements, lightweight materials like carbon fiber and aluminum alloys, and specially developed low-drag tires to maximize efficiency. Powered by an 87 kWh battery pack—identical in capacity to that of Renault’s Scenic E-Tech crossover—the Filante Record achieved exceptional energy efficiency, consuming just 7.8 kWh/100 km at highway speeds, compared to 14.1
electric-vehiclesbattery-technologyenergy-efficiencylightweight-materialscarbon-fiberaerodynamicsautomotive-innovationLexus Introduces the Special Edition RZ 600e "F SPORT Performance" to the Dedicated Battery-Electric RZ Lineup - CleanTechnica
Lexus is set to launch a special edition of its battery-electric RZ lineup, the RZ 600e “F SPORT Performance,” on March 2, 2026, at dealerships nationwide. Building on the existing RZ 550e “F SPORT” and the earlier RZ 450e “F SPORT Performance,” this new model advances Lexus’s commitment to electrification and sporty driving dynamics. Developed with input from air race pilot Yoshihide Muroya and racing driver Masahiro Sasaki, the RZ 600e “F SPORT Performance” features enhanced aerodynamics, including exclusive aero parts that generate powerful downforce, and a lowered vehicle height by 20 mm to reduce drag. The model delivers a maximum motor output of 313 kW, supported by larger 20-inch brake rotors for improved acceleration, braking power, and precise control, optimized for a confident and engaging driving experience. The vehicle incorporates Lexus’s innovative Steer-by-Wire technology paired with an
energyelectric-vehiclesbattery-technologyautomotive-innovationelectrificationperformance-motorsaerodynamicsVideo: US Marines test electric seaglider in first real-world rescue mission
REGENT Craft, a Rhode Island-based company, has successfully demonstrated its Seaglider maritime aircraft in real-world rescue missions with the US Marine Corps, validating its potential for medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) in challenging coastal environments. The Marine Corps tested the Seaglider prototype across three scenarios: loading a non-ambulatory patient from a dock, extracting an injured person from a beach, and recovering a life raft in rough seas. The craft’s ability to rapidly switch between high-speed flight and low-speed sea operations allows it to reach casualties quickly, board them directly from the water, and depart without specialized infrastructure, addressing limitations faced by traditional rescue platforms like helicopters and boats. The Seaglider operates in three modes—hullborne vessel, hydrofoil, and wing-in-ground-effect aircraft—enabling efficient, high-speed travel close to the sea surface. The military variant, called the Viceroy, is expected to cruise at speeds up to 160 knots (about 180 mph), carry
energyelectric-vehiclesmaritime-technologyhybrid-propulsionmilitary-technologyrescue-operationsaerodynamicsChina claims its new missile can change shape at hypersonic speed
China has developed a prototype "morphing" hypersonic vehicle capable of flying faster than Mach 5 (over 6,174 kph) with retractable wings that can change shape mid-flight. This innovation allows the missile to reduce drag by folding its wings for high-speed travel and extend them to gain lift and maneuverability, enabling turns and glides that are typically difficult at hypersonic speeds. The technology, developed by Professor Wang Peng’s team at the National University of Defence Technology (NUDT), has progressed beyond theoretical models to hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) tests, demonstrating real-time control of physical components under simulated flight conditions. This morphing capability addresses a longstanding challenge in hypersonic design, where vehicles usually must compromise between speed and control. By combining both, China could enhance its missile systems' ability to evade interception and engage moving or high-value targets such as aircraft carriers or stealth planes. However, the technology faces significant hurdles, including extreme temperatures exceeding 2
materialsaerospace-technologyhypersonic-vehiclesmorphing-wingsmilitary-technologyadvanced-materialsaerodynamicsChina claims its new missile can change shape at hypersonic speed
China has developed a prototype “morphing” hypersonic vehicle capable of flying faster than Mach 5 (over 6,174 kph) that can change shape mid-flight by using retractable wings. This innovation allows the vehicle to reduce drag by folding its wings for high-speed travel and extend them to gain lift and maneuverability, addressing a longstanding challenge in hypersonic technology where craft typically must choose between speed and control. The vehicle was developed by Professor Wang Peng’s team at the National University of Defence Technology (NUDT), and their work, published in a leading Chinese aerospace journal, includes hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) tests demonstrating real-time control with physical components, not just simulations. The morphing capability could significantly enhance China’s military capabilities, potentially allowing hypersonic missiles to reach targets quickly and then adjust their trajectory to evade interception, making them effective against moving or high-value targets such as aircraft carriers or stealth planes. However, the technology faces substantial challenges, including
materialsaerospace-technologyhypersonic-vehiclesshape-changing-technologymilitary-technologyaerodynamicsadvanced-materialsToyota's first all-electric 400 hp 'Time Attack' concept hits circuit
Toyota is unveiling its first all-electric battery-electric vehicle (BEV) concept, the bZ Time Attack Concept, at the 2025 SEMA Show. Built on the 26MY AWD bZ platform, this purpose-built race car significantly boosts performance, delivering over 400 horsepower through R&D-tuned electric motors—an increase from the stock 338 hp. Designed for time attack circuits and hill climbs, the concept features motorsports-grade suspension, a chassis lowered by six inches, and a six-inch wider track. Aerodynamic enhancements include a fully integrated aero package with a rear wing, side skirts, front splitter, and rear diffuser, all developed using a hybrid fabrication approach combining laser scanning, CAD, and large-scale 3D printing. The project addressed key challenges for electric race cars, notably battery performance and aerodynamic integration, requiring innovative airflow management and cooling solutions. Safety and competition readiness are ensured with TEIN coilovers, an Alcon braking system adapted from Toyota’s race programs, and
energyelectric-vehiclesbattery-electricmotorsport-technology3D-printingaerodynamicsToyotaInside world’s largest wind tunnel that changed future of flight forever
The NASA Ames Research Center, established in 1939 as part of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), played a pivotal role in advancing American aeronautics, particularly through its development of the National Full-Scale Aerodynamics Complex (NFAC). Located at Moffett Field near Silicon Valley, Ames evolved from a modest laboratory into a major research hub that contributed to innovations such as the swept wing and vertical takeoff aircraft. When NASA was formed in 1958, Ames expanded its scope to include space exploration, supercomputing, and early internet technologies, reflecting a blend of technical rigor and visionary imagination. The centerpiece of Ames’ legacy is the NFAC, home to the world’s largest wind tunnel test section—an open-circuit 80×120-foot tunnel capable of accommodating full-scale aircraft like the Boeing 737. Completed in the late 1980s, this massive facility allows researchers to simulate real flight conditions and conduct aerodynamic testing on a scale unmatched anywhere else
energywind-tunnelaerodynamicsNASA-Amesaviation-technologyaerospace-engineeringrenewable-energyFastest Bullet Train in the World in Track Trials Now in China - CleanTechnica
China is currently testing the CR450, touted as the world’s fastest electric multiple unit (EMU) bullet train, on the Shanghai–Chongqing–Chengdu high-speed rail line. The train has achieved a top speed of 450 km/h (280 mph) during rigorous testing since its prototype launch late last year. Before entering commercial service, it must complete 600,000 kilometers of successful operation. The CR450 surpasses previous high-speed trains through advanced aerodynamic and structural improvements, including a lengthened 15-meter nose cone to reduce drag, fully enclosed bogies, lowered skirt panels, a 20-centimeter reduction in height, and a 50-tonne weight reduction, collectively cutting overall resistance by 22%. In addition to its top speed, the CR450 boasts rapid acceleration, reaching 350 km/h in just 4 minutes and 40 seconds. This development highlights China’s continued leadership in cleantech and high-speed rail innovation, contrasting with slower progress in countries like
energyhigh-speed-trainsaerodynamicsstructural-materialselectric-multiple-unittransportation-technologyclean-technologyTiny wind turbine gets 83% more power with breakthrough rotor design
German researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research (IAP), in collaboration with the BBF Group, have developed a lightweight small wind turbine featuring a breakthrough rotor design that significantly enhances energy output and durability. The turbine’s fiber-composite rotor blades, produced using an automated fiber placement process and industrial 3D printing, are hollow and 35% lighter than conventional foam-core blades. This design allows the turbine to start generating power at much lower wind speeds (2.7 m/s) compared to typical small turbines (4 m/s), enabling efficient operation in areas with previously insufficient wind conditions. Wind tunnel tests demonstrated that the turbine can reach up to 450 RPM and produce 2,500 watts at 10 m/s wind speed, delivering approximately 83% more power than comparable models and achieving an efficiency of 53%, close to the theoretical Betz limit of 59%. The rotor blades’ special laminate structure also provides elastic flexibility to withstand strong winds by automatically slowing rotation without
energyrenewable-energywind-turbinefiber-composite-materialsaerodynamicslightweight-designdecentralized-energyIndia’s Airbound bags $8.65M to build rocket-like drones for one-cent deliveries
Airbound, an Indian drone startup founded in 2020 by then-15-year-old Naman Pushp, has raised $8.65 million in seed funding led by Lachy Groom, co-founder of Physical Intelligence. The funding round also included Humba Ventures, Lightspeed Venture Partners, and senior leaders from Tesla, SpaceX, and Anduril. Airbound is developing an ultra-light, rocket-like drone with a blended-wing-body design and carbon fiber frame, aiming to drastically reduce delivery costs. Unlike typical quadcopters, their tail-sitter drone takes off vertically like a rocket and flies efficiently like a plane, targeting delivery costs as low as one cent by improving aerodynamic efficiency and reducing transport weight by about 30 times compared to electric two-wheelers commonly used in India. The startup’s first drone model weighs 3.3 pounds and can carry up to 2.2 pounds, with a second version planned to carry 6.6 pounds while weighing only 2.6
robotdrone-technologyenergy-efficiencyaerospace-materialsdelivery-dronescarbon-fiberaerodynamicsThis ultra-rare 223-mph speeding hypercar is 887 hp manual masterpiece
The Capricorn 01 Zagato is a new ultra-rare hypercar born from the collaboration between Italian design house Zagato and German engineering firm Capricorn Group. Marking Zagato’s first hypercar design, it combines their signature aesthetic with Capricorn’s extensive motorsport engineering experience, including work for Formula 1, Le Mans, and high-performance road cars like Bugatti and Porsche. The car is designed to be road-legal and driver-focused, featuring a rear-wheel-drive layout paired with a five-speed manual transmission for an engaging driving experience. Powered by a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine derived from a Ford unit, the Capricorn 01 produces 887 horsepower and 737 lb-ft of torque, with a redline of 9,000 rpm. Its lightweight carbon-fiber structure, inspired by LMP1 endurance race cars, keeps the weight under 2,645 pounds. Performance highlights include a 0-62 mph time under 3 seconds and a top speed of
materialscarbon-fiberautomotive-engineeringhigh-performance-enginessupercharged-V8carbon-ceramic-brakesaerodynamicsDAB Motors’s new Tron-themed concept blurs line between art, engineering
DAB Motors is advancing the fusion of design, technology, and culture through its “Thursday Experiment” series, a bi-monthly showcase of concept electric motorcycles based on the DAB 1 platform. These concepts treat the motorcycle as a sculptural and artistic object influenced by diverse fields such as fashion, art, motorsport, and architecture. The latest installment, "Experiment 007: 80s Futurism," draws inspiration from the neon-lit digital aesthetics of early 1980s computer films and the new movie Tron: Ares. This concept features radical transformations including aerodynamic body panels and hollow wheels designed to evoke motion, with glowing red lines emphasizing light and geometry. DAB Motors views its work as existing at the intersection of “code and matter,” blending digital precision with handcrafted artistry. The “Thursday Experiment” series serves as a platform to explore how electric motorcycles can become emotional and cultural expressions, influenced by pop culture and luxury design. Previous concepts include "Experiment 005: Drake Airplane
energyelectric-motorcycledesignaerodynamicsdigital-aestheticsindustrial-designelectric-vehiclePhotos: Vittori unveils AI-assisted hypercar with 1,100 horsepower
Vittori, a new performance brand founded by entrepreneur Carlos Cruz, has unveiled its debut hypercar, the Turbio, at The Concours Club in Miami. Limited to just 50 units, the Turbio combines Italian craftsmanship with American ambition, featuring a proprietary hybrid powertrain that pairs a 6.8-liter V12 engine with a front-axle electric motor to deliver a combined 1,100 horsepower. The car incorporates AI-assisted design, additive manufacturing, and race-inspired engineering, with advanced aerodynamics including an adaptive rear wing that optimizes drag and downforce for enhanced stability and cornering. The Turbio’s interior emphasizes driver engagement through tactile controls and mechanical switches, diverging from the touchscreen-heavy cabins common in modern supercars. The vehicle’s design was developed in collaboration with Pininfarina, the renowned Italian design house known for its legacy of automotive excellence and innovation. Vittori aims to create a hypercar that blends performance, beauty, and control without compromise, positioning
energyhybrid-technologyAI-assisted-designadditive-manufacturingautomotive-engineeringaerodynamicselectric-motorMercedes-Benz proves small aerodynamic tweaks boost EV range
Mercedes-Benz continues to prioritize aerodynamic design to enhance the efficiency and comfort of its electric vehicles (EVs), as demonstrated by the latest electric CLA with EQ Technology. By implementing small aerodynamic improvements—such as reshaped wheels, refined underbody panels, and tighter seals—the new CLA achieves a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.21, down from previous models. Mercedes highlights that even a modest 0.01 reduction in Cd can increase long-distance driving range by approximately 2.5 percent, equating to about 230 additional miles annually for a driver covering 9,300 miles. This focus on aerodynamics is part of a long legacy, dating back to the 1930s with pioneering designs like the “Kammback” and record-setting models such as the 1938 W125 “Streamliner” (Cd 0.16) and the recent VISION EQXX concept pushing the Cd as low as 0.17. Beyond improving range, Mercedes-Benz also emphasizes reducing
energyelectric-vehiclesaerodynamicsautomotive-engineeringwind-tunnel-testingdrag-reductionEV-range-optimizationFirst Drive of the 2026 Nissan LEAF - CleanTechnica
The 2026 Nissan LEAF marks a significant redesign for Nissan’s pioneering affordable electric vehicle, featuring a comprehensive facelift both inside and out. The new exterior emphasizes aerodynamics with sleek, swept-back lines, a blunted nose, and an integrated rear spoiler, improving the drag coefficient from 0.29 to 0.26 compared to the previous generation. Unique design touches include roof rails exclusive to the PLAT+ trim and retro-inspired LED brake lights with a hidden Japanese character easter egg referencing the brand’s name. These aerodynamic enhancements contribute directly to improved efficiency and range. The LEAF offers multiple battery and range options, with the top-tier PLAT+ trim providing a 75 kWh battery and a maximum range of 259 miles, while the mid-tier S+ trim extends range up to 303 miles per charge due to fewer added features and lighter rims. Nissan also plans to introduce a 52 kWh battery variant with an estimated 196-mile range in the future, though details
energyelectric-vehiclesNissan-LEAFbattery-technologyaerodynamicselectric-car-rangesustainable-transportationFerrari 849 Testarossa debuts with 1,036 bhp hybrid powertrain
Ferrari has reintroduced the iconic Testarossa name with the new 849 Testarossa, a cutting-edge hybrid supercar unveiled in Milan that replaces the SF90 Stradale. This model combines a reworked 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine producing 819 bhp with three electric motors, delivering a combined output of 1,036 bhp and 842 Nm of torque. The hybrid powertrain enables exceptional performance, including acceleration from 0–100 km/h in 2.3 seconds and a top speed exceeding 330 km/h, positioning the 849 Testarossa among the fastest Ferraris ever made. It also offers a pure electric mode capable of driving up to 30 km at speeds of 130 km/h, operating as a front-wheel-drive vehicle powered by the twin front motors for quieter, emission-free driving. The 849 Testarossa features advanced active aerodynamics inspired by Ferrari’s racing heritage, including a rapidly adjusting central rear wing
energyhybrid-powertrainelectric-motorsplug-in-hybridautomotive-technologyaerodynamicsFerrariPhotos: A love for surfing drives design of new MINI 'The Skeg' concept
MINI’s new concept car, ‘The Skeg,’ developed in collaboration with lifestyle brand Deus ex Machina, uniquely blends electric vehicle technology with surf culture. This one-off John Cooper Works electric show car emphasizes minimalism, clean design, and acceleration, embodying a “quiet rebellion” that reflects both progressive electric mobility and the ethos of surfing. Its exterior features a vibrant yellow and silver finish, wide fenders, an illuminated grille, and lightweight semi-transparent fiberglass panels that reduce weight by 15%. A standout aerodynamic element is the Flex Tip Surf Spoiler, inspired by the concave underside of a surfboard, which dynamically responds to airflow to generate lift. Inside, ‘The Skeg’ pays homage to surf shops with custom fiberglass elements that play with light and a dashboard made using surfboard technology for durability and lightness. Practical features such as fiberglass trays for wetsuit storage and tactile analogue controls underscore the car’s functional design rooted in surf culture values. The racing bucket seats are upholstered in
energyelectric-vehiclesmaterialsfiberglassneopreneautomotive-designaerodynamicsBuilding the business jet that silences the sonic boom
The article discusses Spike Aerospace’s development of the Spike S-512 “Diplomat,” a quiet supersonic business jet designed to overcome the challenges that grounded Concorde, primarily the disruptive sonic boom and regulatory bans on overland supersonic flight. By employing advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD), aerodynamic sculpting, and design principles inspired by NASA’s X-59 program, Spike aims to enable supersonic travel over land routes with significantly reduced noise. The S-512 is engineered to cruise at Mach 1.6, potentially cutting transatlantic flight times, such as New York to London or Paris, to under four hours while maintaining fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. Key technical innovations focus on reshaping the aircraft’s fuselage—particularly an elongated nose cone, high-swept wings, and tail—to spread out shock waves and prevent their coalescence into loud sonic booms. The design uses multi-lobed lift distribution and area ruling to smooth cross-sectional changes, reducing wave drag
energyaerospacesupersonic-flightaerodynamicsfuel-efficiencynoise-reductioncomputational-modelingPhotos: A horse-inspired design marks Bugatti’s new ultra-rare coupe
Bugatti has unveiled the Brouillard, a new ultra-rare coupe that inaugurates its “Programme Solitaire,” an exclusive initiative to produce no more than two highly personalized masterpiece vehicles annually. The Brouillard will officially debut at Monterey Car Week 2025. Inspired by Bugatti’s early 20th-century coachbuilding heritage, the car’s design draws from the form of Ettore Bugatti’s horse, featuring smooth, curved surfaces and a darker lower body that evokes the car’s shadow. A prominent aerodynamic element is the fixed ducktail wing integrated into the carbon fiber and aluminum chassis, enhancing both performance and elegance. The interior reflects the equestrian theme with custom-woven Parisian tartan fabrics, green-tinted carbon fiber, machined aluminum components, and horse motifs embroidered on door panels and seat backrests. A standout detail is the gear shifter, crafted from a single aluminum block and containing a glass insert with a miniature sculpture of Ettore Bugatti’s horse. The cabin benefits from a
materialscarbon-fiberaluminumautomotive-designaerodynamicsluxury-carscraftsmanshipTiny maple seed-inspired drone flies for 26 minutes with one rotor
Researchers at the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), led by Associate Professor Foong Shaohui, have developed a tiny monocopter drone inspired by the natural flight mechanics of maple tree seeds (samaras). This lightweight, 32-gram drone, named SG60, achieves fully controllable, autonomous flight for 26 minutes using a single rotor, setting a new endurance record for drones of its size. Unlike its predecessor, the larger and more complex SG50 multi-rotor drone, the SG60 employs a simple, efficient design that generates lift through a spinning winged body, leveraging passive stability and aerodynamic principles observed in nature. The drone’s design was optimized through a data-driven process that fine-tuned wing shape, pitch, and mass distribution, resulting in a power loading of 9.1 grams per watt—outperforming similar micro air vehicles. Its simplicity, long flight time, and low weight make it suitable for cost-effective, long-duration missions such as
droneroboticsautonomous-flightbiomimicryaerodynamicsmicro-air-vehiclesenergy-efficiencyKoenigsegg’s 46,000 rpm hypercar unleashes jet energy on four wheels
Koenigsegg has unveiled the Sadair’s Spear, a limited-edition hypercar priced at $5.2 million, built on the Jesko platform and designed for extreme track performance while remaining street-legal. This model pays tribute to founder Christian von Koenigsegg’s father, Jesko von Koenigsegg, named after his father’s favorite racehorse. The car features advanced aerodynamic enhancements such as a lightweight double-blade active rear wing, elongated rear design, expanded front canards, and reengineered hood vents, all contributing to superior cooling and increased downforce for optimal handling. At its heart lies Koenigsegg’s twin-turbo V8 engine paired with the innovative flywheel-free Light Speed Transmission (LST), capable of revving up to 46,000 rpm. The engine produces 1,300 hp on regular fuel and an extraordinary 1,625 hp on E85 fuel. The Sadair’s Spear also emphasizes weight reduction
energymaterialsautomotive-technologyhigh-performance-enginescarbon-fiberaerodynamicsfuel-efficiencyCan Formula E's 2026 Gen4 AWD Cars Compete With F1? - CleanTechnica
The upcoming Formula E Gen4 cars, set to debut in the 2026-2027 season, will feature significant performance upgrades, including a maximum power output of 600 kW and regenerative braking capability increased to 700 kW. Early testing has shown these all-electric vehicles can reach speeds over 210 mph, aided by advanced aerodynamic features such as a narrow nose and multi-element front wing designed for real-time adjustments. The chassis will continue to be supplied by Spark, with batteries from Podium Advanced Technologies, and Bridgestone will introduce two tire options for the first time in Formula E history to improve performance in wet conditions. Major manufacturers like Nissan, Jaguar, Porsche, Maserati, and Lola have committed to participating with the Gen4 cars. In comparison, the 2026 Formula 1 cars will maintain their status as the fastest open-wheel racers, with key changes including a 30% reduction in downforce, 55% less drag, and a minimum weight of 768 kg
energyelectric-vehiclesFormula-Ebattery-technologysustainable-fuelsaerodynamicsmotorsport-technologyHyundai Motor Teases the All-New IONIQ 6 N, Providing Glimpse of N’s Upcoming High-Performance EV - CleanTechnica
Hyundai Motor Company has released teaser images of the all-new IONIQ 6 N, its upcoming high-performance electric sedan that builds on the success of the IONIQ 5 N. The IONIQ 6 N features a streamlined silhouette with advanced aerodynamics, including flared fenders, a wider stance, lightweight wheels, and a large wing spoiler, all designed to enhance high-speed stability and dynamic capability. The vehicle embodies Hyundai N’s three core performance pillars: Corner Rascal, Racetrack Capability, and Everyday Sports Car, aiming to deliver an exhilarating and intuitive driving experience. The IONIQ 6 N represents Hyundai’s continued commitment to innovation in high-performance electric vehicles, combining cutting-edge design with groundbreaking technology. Hyundai chose to debut the IONIQ 6 N at the Goodwood Festival of Speed to engage closely with fans and showcase its disruptive potential in the high-performance EV segment. This model is positioned to further Hyundai’s legacy of motorsport success and industry accolades, reinforcing
energyelectric-vehiclesHyundaiIONIQ-6-Nhigh-performance-EVaerodynamicsautomotive-innovationInsights into the 3rd-Generation Nissan LEAF — VIDEO - CleanTechnica
electric-vehiclesNissan-LEAFenergy-efficiencyaerodynamicselectric-mobilitysustainable-transportationautomotive-technology