Racing Technology Optimisation: Drag Control and Downforce
Research Article
Open Access
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Racing Technology Optimisation: Drag Control and Downforce

Jingxuan Gao 1*
1 International School Bangkok
*Corresponding author: 20461@students.isb.ac.th
Published on 26 November 2025
Volume Cover
ACE Vol.209
ISSN (Print): 2755-273X
ISSN (Online): 2755-2721
ISBN (Print): 978-1-80590-561-5
ISBN (Online): 978-1-80590-562-2
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Abstract

This paper explores the aerodynamic optimisation of racing vehicles, with a specific focus on drag reduction and downforce generation. The study outlines fundamental aerodynamic principles affecting racing performance, such as drag coefficient, wake turbulence, ground effect, and pressure distribution. Optimisation methods, including CFD simulations, wind tunnel testing, and machine learning applications, are discussed in detail. Each method’s advantages and limitations are analysed in the context of practical implementation. The paper highlights the importance of balancing aerodynamic efficiency with handling stability, especially in high-speed environments where marginal improvements can significantly influence performance. Case studies from Formula 1, Formula E, and hypercar design are examined, illustrating the application of technologies like DRS systems, active rear wings, and energy recovery integration. These examples demonstrate how manufacturers optimise airflow to reduce drag while maintaining or enhancing downforce for improved control. While significant progress has been made, challenges remain in developing cost-effective, adaptive, and efficient aerodynamic systems. The paper concludes with a discussion on the future of racing aerodynamics, emphasising the role of intelligent systems and real-time optimisation in shaping the next generation of racing vehicle design.

Keywords:

Aerodynamic optimisation, Drag reduction, Downforce generation, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Active aerodynamics

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Gao,J. (2025). Racing Technology Optimisation: Drag Control and Downforce. Applied and Computational Engineering,209,15-20.

References

[1]. Katz, N. (2001). Sports teams as a model for workplace teams: Lessons and liabilities. Academy of Management Perspectives, 15(3), 56-67..

[2]. Santos, L. C., dos Anjos Cordeiro, J. M., da Silva Santana, L., Barbosa, E. M., Santos, B. R., Mendonça, L. D., ... & Silva, J. F. (2023). Kisspeptin treatment reverses high prolactin levels and improves gonadal function in hypothyroid male rats. Scientific Reports, 13(1), 16819..

[3]. Akamatsu, M., Green, P., & Bengler, K. (2013). Automotive technology and human factors research: Past, present, and future. International journal of vehicular technology, 2013(1), 526180.

[4]. Zdravkovich, M. M. (1977). Review of flow interference between two circular cylinders in various arrangements. Journal of fluids engineering, 99(4), 618-633.

[5]. Donovan, A. F. (Ed.). (2015). Aerodynamic components of aircraft at high speeds. Princeton University Press.

[6]. Sahibzada, S., Malik, F. S., Nasir, S., & Lodhi, S. K. (2025). Generative AI Driven Aerodynamic Shape Optimization: A Neural Network-Based Framework for Enhancing Performance and Efficiency. International Journal of Innovative Research in Computer Science and Technology, 13(1), 98-105.

[7]. Flemmer, R. L., & Banks, C. L. (1986). On the drag coefficient of a sphere. Powder Technology, 48(3), 217-221.

[8]. Sadraey, M., & Müller, D. (2009). Drag force and drag coefficient. Aircraft performance analysis.

[9]. Mahrt, L., Vickers, D., Sun, J., Jensen, N. O., Jørgensen, H., Pardyjak, E., & Fernando, H. (2001). Determination of the surface drag coefficient. Boundary-Layer Meteorology, 99(2), 249-276.

[10]. Cook, G. E. (1965). Satellite drag coefficients. Planetary and Space Science, 13(10), 929-946.

[11]. Patnaik, B. S. V., & Wei, G. W. (2002). Controlling wake turbulence. Physical Review Letters, 88(5), 054502.

[12]. Churchfield, M. J., Lee, S., Michalakes, J., & Moriarty, P. J. (2012). A numerical study of the effects of atmospheric and wake turbulence on wind turbine dynamics. Journal of turbulence, (13), N14.

[13]. Barlow, J. B., Rae, W. H., & Pope, A. (1999). Low-speed wind tunnel testing. John wiley & sons.

[14]. Zhang, X., Toet, W., & Zerihan, J. (2006). Ground effect aerodynamics of race cars.

[15]. Da Silveira, G., & Slack, N. (2001). Exploring the tradeâ off concept. International Journal of Operations & Production Management, 21(7), 949-964.

[16]. Paulsen, K., & Hensel, F. (2005). Introduction of a new Energy Recovery Systemâ optimized for the combination with renewable energy. Desalination, 184(1-3), 211-215.

[17]. Shams Taleghani, A., & Torabi, F. (2025). Recent developments in aerodynamics. Frontiers in Mechanical Engineering, 10, 1537383.

[18]. Piechna, J. (2021). A review of active aerodynamic systems for road vehicles. Energies, 14(23), 7887.

[19]. Cogotti, F. (2024, June). The New Porsche Taycan: Augmented Range or Enhanced Performance? The Choice is Yours. In International Stuttgart Symposium (pp. 23-44). Wiesbaden: Springer Fachmedien Wiesbaden.

References

[1]. Katz, N. (2001). Sports teams as a model for workplace teams: Lessons and liabilities. Academy of Management Perspectives, 15(3), 56-67..

[2]. Santos, L. C., dos Anjos Cordeiro, J. M., da Silva Santana, L., Barbosa, E. M., Santos, B. R., Mendonça, L. D., ... & Silva, J. F. (2023). Kisspeptin treatment reverses high prolactin levels and improves gonadal function in hypothyroid male rats. Scientific Reports, 13(1), 16819..

[3]. Akamatsu, M., Green, P., & Bengler, K. (2013). Automotive technology and human factors research: Past, present, and future. International journal of vehicular technology, 2013(1), 526180.

[4]. Zdravkovich, M. M. (1977). Review of flow interference between two circular cylinders in various arrangements. Journal of fluids engineering, 99(4), 618-633.

[5]. Donovan, A. F. (Ed.). (2015). Aerodynamic components of aircraft at high speeds. Princeton University Press.

[6]. Sahibzada, S., Malik, F. S., Nasir, S., & Lodhi, S. K. (2025). Generative AI Driven Aerodynamic Shape Optimization: A Neural Network-Based Framework for Enhancing Performance and Efficiency. International Journal of Innovative Research in Computer Science and Technology, 13(1), 98-105.

[7]. Flemmer, R. L., & Banks, C. L. (1986). On the drag coefficient of a sphere. Powder Technology, 48(3), 217-221.

[8]. Sadraey, M., & Müller, D. (2009). Drag force and drag coefficient. Aircraft performance analysis.

[9]. Mahrt, L., Vickers, D., Sun, J., Jensen, N. O., Jørgensen, H., Pardyjak, E., & Fernando, H. (2001). Determination of the surface drag coefficient. Boundary-Layer Meteorology, 99(2), 249-276.

[10]. Cook, G. E. (1965). Satellite drag coefficients. Planetary and Space Science, 13(10), 929-946.

[11]. Patnaik, B. S. V., & Wei, G. W. (2002). Controlling wake turbulence. Physical Review Letters, 88(5), 054502.

[12]. Churchfield, M. J., Lee, S., Michalakes, J., & Moriarty, P. J. (2012). A numerical study of the effects of atmospheric and wake turbulence on wind turbine dynamics. Journal of turbulence, (13), N14.

[13]. Barlow, J. B., Rae, W. H., & Pope, A. (1999). Low-speed wind tunnel testing. John wiley & sons.

[14]. Zhang, X., Toet, W., & Zerihan, J. (2006). Ground effect aerodynamics of race cars.

[15]. Da Silveira, G., & Slack, N. (2001). Exploring the tradeâ off concept. International Journal of Operations & Production Management, 21(7), 949-964.

[16]. Paulsen, K., & Hensel, F. (2005). Introduction of a new Energy Recovery Systemâ optimized for the combination with renewable energy. Desalination, 184(1-3), 211-215.

[17]. Shams Taleghani, A., & Torabi, F. (2025). Recent developments in aerodynamics. Frontiers in Mechanical Engineering, 10, 1537383.

[18]. Piechna, J. (2021). A review of active aerodynamic systems for road vehicles. Energies, 14(23), 7887.

[19]. Cogotti, F. (2024, June). The New Porsche Taycan: Augmented Range or Enhanced Performance? The Choice is Yours. In International Stuttgart Symposium (pp. 23-44). Wiesbaden: Springer Fachmedien Wiesbaden.

Cite this article

Gao,J. (2025). Racing Technology Optimisation: Drag Control and Downforce. Applied and Computational Engineering,209,15-20.

Data availability

The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study will be available from the authors upon reasonable request.

About volume

Volume title: Proceedings of CONF-MCEE 2026 Symposium: Advances in Sustainable Aviation and Aerospace Vehicle Automation

ISBN: 978-1-80590-561-5(Print) / 978-1-80590-562-2(Online)
Editor: Ömer Burak İSTANBULLU
Conference website: https://2025.confmcee.org/kayseri.html
Conference date: 14 November 2025
Series: Applied and Computational Engineering
Volume number: Vol.209
ISSN: 2755-2721(Print) / 2755-273X(Online)

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