‘Shape Changing’ Flaps Improve Cruze Fuel Economy
Sometimes it doesn’t take much to improve fuel economy. As part of the run-up to the launch of its Chevy Cruze in the United States, GM is highlighting some of its features. One is a piece of pretty unimpressive technology. It’s not an advanced battery chemistries or radical engine design, just a set of shutters that open and close depending on temperature and vehicle speed. (GM is calling this “shape changing” although the changes happen behind a grill and can’t be seen easily.) At high speeds, the flaps close to reduce drag. At low speeds or high temperatures, they open to improve cooling of the engine. But, although the tech isn’t impressive, the result is significant–an added half mile per gallon.
The flaps couldn’t have cost much to add, and they probably could have been included with GM cars years or decades ago. No doubt, provided the right motivation, GM could incorporate other simple measures across its fleet that could improve fuel economy.
Keep Reading
Most Popular
Large language models can do jaw-dropping things. But nobody knows exactly why.
And that's a problem. Figuring it out is one of the biggest scientific puzzles of our time and a crucial step towards controlling more powerful future models.
How scientists traced a mysterious covid case back to six toilets
When wastewater surveillance turns into a hunt for a single infected individual, the ethics get tricky.
The problem with plug-in hybrids? Their drivers.
Plug-in hybrids are often sold as a transition to EVs, but new data from Europe shows we’re still underestimating the emissions they produce.
Google DeepMind’s new generative model makes Super Mario–like games from scratch
Genie learns how to control games by watching hours and hours of video. It could help train next-gen robots too.
Stay connected
Get the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review
Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.