April 6, 2008 Update by Ian

[Derwin]

IanBruce (http://www.flytheroad.com/)
Administrator (http://flytheroad.com/blog/forums/profile.php?id=128)

Hi guys,
I've re-updated the homepage image, which is a bit closer to the final production design. And just to let you know, the "wing" isn't as dramatic on the refined, Gen 3 design. We've since opened up the rear tumblehome -- the slope at which a vehicle’s sides or windows angle to meets its roof -- to increase the rear passenger side-to-side headroom. That volume came out of the rear deck, or "wing", as everyone prefers to call it.
Even so... I think this is a great shot of the Gen 2 geometry:

http://flytheroad.com/NYIAS_08/IMG_5401.jpg

-- Ian

Posted: 2008-04-06 17:05:05 # (http://flytheroad.com/blog/forums/topic.php?id=497&page=18&replies=536#post-13725)

[MVRacing]

He's alive =y: =y: Wonderful!!
Sounds like a nice change. should make the passenger feel less claustrophobic. Bet it will help aerodynamics too.

Come on Ian give us more!! How's the Alpha coming?

[PHEVadvocate]

Hello Ian,

I never did like the wing that much, thanks for toning it down some! I can’t wait to see the new pictures! I keep updating my desktop background to reflect the latest design, so don’t wait too long to share!

I hope things are Flying along! =D

[Derwin]

I think the "wing" will still be there, it just won't be as pronounced. I actually like the wing.....it adds to the whole "FlyTheRoad" type of theme. But I'm sure it's going to look even better when they get the design completed.

Derwin

[Derwin]

Question from
AZEqualizer
Member
It's possible VV is trying to do something with the airflow with the scallops ( intake grooves) as the air intake and radiators are in those black parts on the power pod that are behind them. But I have no expertise in this area so it is just a guess.

I too look forward to the Gen 3 full pic and Gen4 and so on up to the finished model... and would love to see more of the Alpha pictures.




IanBruce
Administrator
Hi AZ,

You're right -- they're vortex generators. We're getting great airflow over the cabin module, but need improvement at the cabin/propulsion module interface. Delaying flow separation into the main intakes could help improve matters, and the VGs (or strakes, if you prefer) are part of a number of things we're looking at. It's by no means confirmed for the final design, but I thought I'd put it out there to gauge people's reactions.

[rogwild]

Well its going on 3 weeks since the NY Auto Show. Hope we get an 'update' and maybe some pictures / drawings of Gen3 and progress on the 'Alpha'. It will be nice to see some of the 'plumbing' going into the Power Pod and the tilting mechanism attached.