CFD model of Speed Record Roadster

The client was building an extended wheelbase 1932 Ford roadster that he intended to race at the Bonneville Saltflats, and needed help developing and designing the body, especially for aerodynamic performance. Hardline Design rebuilt an existing CAD model based on the actual car, and this computer model was used in Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulations at a third party company with expertise in aerodynamic testing in race-car applications. Several innovative aero features were introduced on the car which has never been seen on a 1932-based roadster seen at Bonneville before, and still too secret to show here.

These Bunkspeed and Vred renderings shows the aerodynamic shape of the modified '32 roadster in its natural setting.

The small cockpit does have a small plexiglass lip but is otherwise open. Driver is protected by complete roll cage with bodywork built to fit around it.

This view shows some of the aerodynamic modifications made to the underside of the car. Hot gas exhaust and other ducts are positioned to reduce drag as much as possible while providing slight downforce needed at high speed for stability.

Additional images for the CAD model below:

The images above shows the manufacturing of the special carbon fiber wheel covers that were made using clay and other molding techniques for the purpose of reducing aerodynamic drag on the wheels. They take inspiration from golf balls, which go 30% farther with the small craters than balls that do not.