Supercar Aerodynamics
NSX achieves improved aerodynamic balance and supercar aerodynamic downforce without the use of active aero. Aerodynamic drag is minimized, even while moving large airflows through NSX as it inhales and exhales. Aerodynamic downforce is created through the total airflow management focus on utilizing airflow through each vent, as NSX exhales, and through more traditional aerodynamic shape optimization.
NSX has undergone extensive testing at the company’s wind tunnel in Raymond, Ohio, using detailed 40-percent-scale models that replicate all of the intake and exhaust vents, heat exchangers and major under-hood components. These scale models replicate drag and lift performance with good levels of approximation. It has been verified and put through its paces at the company’s full-scale wind tunnel in Japan, and on real and simulated proving grounds throughout the world.
Total airflow management vents and ducting also help create strong downforce for NSX and were tuned to optimized forms with aerodynamicist and designer input during working wind tunnel sessions.
Six vortices flow at the rear of the NSX including those that support creating the highest downforce across the rear deck lid.
Flowing from below the car and exiting through optimized lower, rear diffuser fins is a critical vortex that further anchors NSX to the ground. The fins are not parallel to each other, but are narrower toward the front of the car and wider at the rear. This design creates low pressure and further maximizes downforce.
