Stellantis unveiled its innovative Moving Ground Plane (MGP) technology – a $29.5 million investment – at the company’s research and technical center in Auburn Hills, Michigan.<br /><br />The upgraded wind tunnel will be able to measure and reduce airflow resistance from wheels and tires, which can account for up to 10% of total real-world aerodynamic drag.<br /><br />Optimizing aerodynamic efficiency is crucial in the effort to extend the driving range of electrified vehicles on a single charge. This enhancement directly contributes to improved efficiency, benefiting customers with longer EV ranges and potentially reducing battery sizes, which in turn could lead to cost and weight savings.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />This realistic simulation allows for more precise testing and aerodynamic improvements.
