SUBJECT:

>On Sun, 8 Jun 1997 00:54:12 -0500 Norman Leong said:
>>There was some some discussion in another forum as to whether or not the lead
>>vehicle derived some benefit from a following vehicle in a draft, a "push" if
>
>according to the Nascar drivers, the lead vehicle DOES derive some benefit,
>but not as much as the following vehicles. i'm not sure our buses are big
>enough (or fast enough) to do any 18-wheelers any good. and besides, most
>of them do NOT like being behind 4-wheelers for very long. imho. :)
>
>joel

DISCUSSION:

When two vehicles travel linearly in close proximity, a small pressure
system is formed in the "slot" between them, creating a sort of "Venturi
Effect." The air being forced more quickly to move between the vehicles
creates a  mini-high pressure system, and a low pressure in front of the
vehicles, resulting in a forward vector PULL, effectively causing both
vehicles' forward vectors to combine, resulting in further forward thrust
(i.e. acceleration).

But this "slot" is distinctly related to vehicle sizes, placement, and
shapes (read: air flow patterns). There is a point where you are out of the
slot, and simply being buffeted in "trash" air (highly disturbed whorls).

Having once been the recipient of a rear tire blowing on an 18 wheeler as
it blew by me, I opt to avoid the questionable advantage any "slot-riding"
might afford!

Another 2 cents!

Louise