February 3, 2016
DETROIT – When Röechling’s active speedlips pucker up, resistance is lowered – air resistance, that is.
The device is one of several solutions developed by the Mannheim, Germany-based automotive supplier to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions by enhancing vehicle aerodynamics.
Unlike passive wind deflectors, which provide less control of airflow, active speedlips,
positioned just ahead of the front tires, are lowered from the vehicle frame by adjustable actuators to guide headwinds around the front of the tire, reducing drag.
Active speedlips work in concert with another adjustable component developed by Röechling, the active air dam, which enhances airflow along the bottom of the front fascia. To avoid damage caused by obstacles typically encountered at low speeds, both devices are retracted when the vehicle travels less than 43 mph (69 km/h).
Another Röechling solution improves aerodynamics without compromising the appearance of the front-end grille that is a key element of a vehicle’s branding. The supplier’s active grille shutter uses vertically or horizontally positioned blades, depending on the grille’s styling, that are installed directly behind the radiator grille to maximize airflow.
When open, the adjustable shutter guides cooling air directly toward the heat exchangers. The shutter closes at higher speeds, optimizing drag coefficient. One or more shutters actively improve thermal management, one result being a significant reduction in the time needed for the powertrain to heat up.
Other Röechling technologies are used in air-intake and fluid management, acoustics and lightweighting applications. Its North American headquarters is in Troy, MI.
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