An Exhaustive Examination of the Dodge Dakota Aero Uncovers Its Hidden Style and Charm
In an exciting development for truck enthusiasts, Premier Aerodynamics has simulated the aerodynamic performance of the second-generation Dodge Dakota using OpenFOAM, an open-source computational fluid dynamics software. The focus of the analysis was to reduce drag caused by high-pressure zones inside the bed.
The key insights from the simulation reveal several potential improvements for the Dodge Dakota.
Firstly, the flat roof of the truck allows for a consistent flow speed, reducing energy loss and effectively directing air towards the bed.
Secondly, after the air rolls off the rear of the cab, it can flow in three ways: far beyond the tailgate into the wake, just short of the tailgate forming a high-pressure zone inside the bed, or just over the top of the tailgate. The last path is preferred but least likely in the Dakota's stock form.
To address this issue, a major aerodynamic improvement involves modifying the roof's rear with a flare angle. This flare directs more air slightly upward over the tailgate, preventing the formation of the high-pressure zone inside the bed, which pushes against the truck and increases drag.
Creating a rounder underside is also beneficial for reducing drag and can produce useful downforce. The analysis notes the efficiency advantage of rounded underbody airflow over a flatter one.
In summary, the critical aerodynamic enhancements are to flare the rear roof edge to direct airflow cleanly over the tailgate and potentially smooth or round the undercarriage to reduce drag and improve downforce. These adjustments can dramatically reduce drag on the second-gen Dodge Dakota, as demonstrated in Premier Aerodynamics' OpenFOAM CFD simulations.
The simulation also highlighted a low pressure under the second-gen Dodge Dakota, indicating potential for further aerodynamic improvements. The host emphasized that a rounder underside is better for reducing drag and can produce good downforce.
Interestingly, the second-gen Dodge Dakota's aerodynamic performance is comparable to some cars and even some supercars. A tonneau cover is recommended for aerodynamic efficiency, especially one that covers the back half of the bed. However, most conventional truck "upgrades" tend to make them less aerodynamically efficient.
For more insights into how air interacts with different truck design elements, check out the rest of the video. If you have any questions or tips, feel free to contact the author directly through their website.
Premier Aerodynamics specializes in airflow analysis and has tested various concepts, including car roof spoilers, helicopter blade designs, and aircraft wing designs. Their expertise in aerodynamics makes them a valuable resource for anyone seeking to optimize the performance of their vehicles.
- Incorporating a flare angle at the rear of the truck roof is suggested as a significant aerodynamic improvement to direct airflow over the tailgate effectively, thereby preventing the formation of high-pressure zones inside the bed.
- The analysis suggests that a rounder underside can be beneficial for reducing drag, producing useful downforce, and improving the overall aerodynamic performance of vehicles, including trucks like the second-gen Dodge Dakota.
- For better aerodynamic efficiency, a tonneau cover is recommended, particularly one that covers the back half of the bed, for the second-gen Dodge Dakota.
- Premier Aerodynamics, renowned for their expertise in airflow analysis, has tested various concepts like car roof spoilers, helicopter blade designs, and aircraft wing designs, making them a valuable resource for optimizing vehicle performances in diverse industries such as automotive, transportation, and even finance for companies focused on lifestyle and technology.
