Automobile behavior and control are studied in the presence of significant crosswinds. Qualitative and quantitative measures of performance have been modeled and results compiled for a variety of vehicles (automobiles, sport/utility vehicles, vans, and pick-up trucks).

Vehicles with locked wheels exhibit both yaw and lateral instability in addition to roughly longitudinal deceleration. This work focuses on calculation of vehicle trajectories under such conditions.

Road vehicle aerodynamics has up to now been concentrated on drag reduction. This work examines potential handling and braking performance improvements that could be made through proper use of vehicle aerodynamics. The practicality of the enhancements is also addressed in light of packaging and styling considerations.

This work examines the vehicle dynamics associated with a single flat tire at various locations on automobiles. Fixed control and active steering vehicle dynamic response are studied. Effects associated with understeer/oversteer, tire capabilities, and vehicle inertial properties are included. Effects of underinflation of a pair of tires are also included. A road vehicle and a racing car are examined.

Vehicle dynamics associated with a vehicle with a locked rear end (no differential, rear-wheel-drive) are of interest, especially in racing and off-road performance. A limited-slip differential constitutes a special case of such behavior. In this work, handling characteristics and nonlimit-performance maneuvering are modeled. New results for changes in understeer/oversteer are developed, and improvement or degradation of vehicle performance is addressed.

* Denotes principal investigator.