The aerodynamic characteristics of cars driving in crosswind are studied by numerical simulation. A real car model is established and the front window angle is modified by the three-dimensional software of UG. Then numerical simulations for these models are taken using the computational fluid mechanics method. The characteristics of the body outflow field in crosswind are analyzed as well as the influences of different front window angles on the aerodynamic characteristics. As a result, the body outflow field becomes no longer symmetrical and this leads to aerodynamic side force coefficient up to 0.927, aerodynamic drag coefficient increased by 38.5% (up to 0.392) and aerodynamic lift coefficient increased by 15.6% (up to 0.281). Meanwhile, the airflow separation from the bottom at the rear is postponed and the number of vortexes is reduced since the front window angle becomes larger. The areas of positive and negative pressures are smaller. When the front window angle is 35°, there is the best aerodynamic characteristic in crosswind.

vehicle  /  aerodynamic characteristics  /  body flow field  /  front window angle  /  crosswind