Greenlings: What is cD and why does it matter? – Green Cars

Aerodynamics. When discussing overall efficiency, sometimes it’s easy to overlook just how important the shape of an automobile is in determining how fuel efficient it is. Aerodynamics is the reason that the new Honda Insight looks so similar to the Toyota Prius and it’s also the reason that the production version of the Chevy Volt looks so different from the concept that we grew to love after its introduction back at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show. So, what’s the big deal?

First, let’s discuss what the term aerodynamics means. According to Merriam-Webster, aerodynamics is “a branch of dynamics that deals with the motion of air and other gaseous fluids and with the forces acting on bodies in motion relative to such fluids.” Clear as mud? In this case, the fluid we’re talking about is indeed air, and the easier it is for an object to cut through the air, the less energy is required to keep that body in motion.

Let’s move on. Click past the break to keep reading.

Continue reading Greenlings: What is cD and why does it matter?

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Greenlings: What is cD and why does it matter? originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Thu, 26 Mar 2009 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Greenlings: What is cD and why does it matter? – Green Cars