Aerodynamic Investigation of a Three-Wheeled Vehicle Using a CFD Approach: A Study on Drag and Lift Variations

The aerodynamic performance of a three-wheeled vehicle was analysed using a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) approach to evaluate its drag coefficient (C _d ) and lift coefficient (C _l ) under varying flow and environmental conditions. The study investigates the effects of velocity, air temperature, and density on aerodynamic forces, providing insights into their influence on vehicle stability and efficiency. A parametric analysis was conducted over a range of velocities (1–100 m/s), temperatures (223–328 K), and air densities corresponding to different altitudes (-1000 m to 80,000 m). The results indicate a direct correlation between velocity and aerodynamic forces, with C _d and C _l increasing non-linearly at higher speeds. Conversely, temperature variations showed negligible impact on aerodynamic performance, while decreasing air density at higher altitudes significantly reduced drag and lift forces. Additionally, a grid independence test was performed to ensure numerical accuracy, confirming that mesh refinement beyond a critical threshold yielded minimal variation in results. The three-dimensional model of the vehicle was developed in Fusion 360, and CFD simulations were conducted using ANSYS to assess aerodynamic behavior. The findings highlight the potential for aerodynamic optimization in three-wheeled vehicle design, emphasizing the need for refined body shaping and flow management strategies to enhance efficiency and stability. The motivation behind selecting a three-wheeled vehicle lies in its growing adoption for urban mobility, given its lightweight structure, lower manufacturing costs, and energy efficiency. However, its aerodynamic characteristics remain a critical factor in ensuring stability, particularly at higher speeds. This study highlights the potential for aerodynamic optimization in three-wheeled vehicle design, emphasizing the need for refined body shaping and flow management strategies to enhance efficiency and stability. This study serves as a foundation for future aerodynamic improvements in alternative vehicle designs, contributing to advancements in energy-efficient transportation.