Cold weather, air density, and drag

Discussion in 'Fred's House of Pancakes' started by bwilson4web, Dec 17, 2022.

  1. bwilson4web

    bwilson4web BMW i3 and Model 3

    Joined:
    Nov 25, 2005
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    Location:
    Huntsville AL
    Vehicle:
    2018 Tesla Model 3
    Model:
    Prime Plus
    The air density if a function of pressure and temperature: Earth Atmosphere Model - Metric Units
    upload_2022-12-17_15-49-6.png
    The red formula shows the air density is inversely proportional to the ar temperature. Cold air is more dense.

    The air drag source: The Drag Equation
    upload_2022-12-17_15-51-41.png

    Every vehicle is affected by denser air that increases drag. A rule of thumb, above 45 mph, aerodynamic drive is a primary force which is why every vehicle has lower mileage. But since the drag is proportional to velocity squared, just slow down and the efficiency returns.

    One thing I forgot to mention is with the colder, winter temperatures, tire air pressure will decrease. So it is time to inflate the tires to your desired pressure. I typically run as maximum sidewall pressure to minimize rolling drag.

    Bob Wilson