Posted: Wed Nov 22, 2006 1:57 pm Post subject: Kombi Aerodynamics
Kombi aerodynamics
I posted this on "other site" about 18 months ago.
I know the Kombi has a larger frontal area and initially has more air to push but the basic design with the Kamm effect rear end compensates once it starts moving.
Test were also done with quarter lights in front and rear opened which really upset airflow to air intakes and can create higher running temps on very hot days.
It is often said that Kombis have the aerodynamics of a brick.
The Kombi is more aerodynamic than a Beetle. I posted the research from University /factory research some months ago.
I also have camper and bus and at 85-90 get around 10-12 litres per 100k depending on conditions.
As for arerodynamics please read the following.
The idea for the Type 2 is credited to the Dutch
Volkswagen importer Ben Pon, drew the first sketches of the van in 1947.
Aerodynamics is a branch of fluid dynamics concerned with the study of gas flows. The solution of an aerodynamic problem normally involves calculating for various properties of the flow, such as velocity, pressure, density, and temperature, as a function of space and time. Understanding the flow pattern makes it possible to calculate or approximate the forces and moments acting on bodies in the flow. This mathematical analysis and empirical approximation form the scientific basis for heavier-than-air flight.
The aerodynamics of the first prototypes were not good but heavy optimisation took place at the wind tunnel of the Technical University of Braunschweig
The wind tunnel work paid off, as the Type 2 was aerodynamically superior to the Beetle despite its slab-sided shape. Three years later, under the direction of Volkswagen's new CEO Heinz Nordhoff, the first production model left the factory at Wolfsburg
__________________ _________________ Kombis Keep you Younger
This link includes the info above but also has more on the Type2 design and some interesting photos and many links.
Covers the basic history and the varied models right through to 2006 including Mexico and Brazil.
Edit: 7th Dec 2008
This Speedace link seems to be down but site apparently will be back
Noticed comments on various forums about Kombis being like bricks, loaf of bread etc so thought I would bring this up again for our newer members.
Kombi is also more efficient than Beetle
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