Can a simple plywood attachment save you money on gas while driving?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the effectiveness of using a plywood attachment to reduce gas consumption while driving. Participants concluded that attaching plywood to the front of a car does not decrease fuel usage, as the vehicle itself must still push air out of the way, negating any potential benefits. In fact, the plywood would increase air resistance, leading to higher fuel consumption. The concept of drafting behind a semi-truck is effective because the truck displaces air, creating a pocket that reduces drag for following vehicles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vehicle aerodynamics
  • Knowledge of fuel consumption principles
  • Familiarity with drafting techniques in driving
  • Basic mechanical knowledge of vehicle dynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research vehicle aerodynamics and drag coefficients
  • Explore effective drafting techniques for fuel efficiency
  • Investigate alternative methods to reduce vehicle air resistance
  • Learn about the impact of vehicle modifications on fuel economy
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Drivers, automotive engineers, and anyone interested in optimizing fuel efficiency through aerodynamic improvements.

MrPeanut
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So, I have been thinking about this idea for a long time. I have heard that if you travel behind a semi-truck, then you drive within a pocket of stagnant air behind the truck and will end up using less gas because of this... My question is, if I attached a large piece of plywood in front of my car to a long metal bar mounted to my car, with the plywood being perpendicular to the ground and parallel to the front of my car, then would I be able to use less gas on my trip? I really really need to save money on gas.. I have attached a schematic image depicting the situation. Tell me if I will use less gas on my trip.

carwin.jpg
 
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You will not save any gas. The reason you save gas by being behind a large truck is because the truck itself is doing the work and pushing the air out of the way. The air in the pocket is moving along with the truck and you simply drive up into it. Attaching plywood to the front of your car doesn't do anything as your car is still what has to push the air out of the way. (Or rather your car's engine still has to provide the power to push it out of the way since the wood is attached to your car.)
 
Or rather, it DOES serve to waste even more gas as a piece of plywood attached to the car has terrible aerodynamic properties. You will increase the air resistance to beyond that of the least aerodynamic vehicle I can think of.

BTW, replacing the plywood with a big magnet (to pull your car forward) will also not save any gas :)
 

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