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icefire555 t1_iu9md6s wrote

Reply to comment by 1320Fastback in ELI5: How are aerodynamics different between EVs and combustion engine cars by Auguste-67

While the radiator is true. Evs also have brakes. They just have 2 sets. Motors and brakes.

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1320Fastback t1_iu9oalv wrote

They don't need the increased cooling at the cost of aero efficiency.

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icefire555 t1_iu9owcy wrote

You don't need increased cooling in brakes unless you're racing and using them constantly at high speeds.

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ohyonghao t1_iu9u2sw wrote

Or going down a steep decent…

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86tuning t1_iua6tt6 wrote

if regenerative braking does half the job, only half of the heat is generated by the mechanical brakes, and half the cooling is required.

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ohyonghao t1_iua75wh wrote

Until the regenerative capacity is full and have to rely entirely on friction brakes. You don’t engineer for optimal operating conditions.

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86tuning t1_iua6kem wrote

> Evs also have brakes. They just have 2 sets. Motors and brakes.

while this is true, because of regenerative braking, the hydralic/mechanical brakes aren't at as much risk for overheating and therefore do not have the same cooling requirements.

as with everything else, optimization of cooling versus aerodynamics is required. and with electric vehicles and regenerative braking, aerodynamics can be prioritized more than with your typical ICE sportscar, where braking performance and cooling is prioritized.

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eldercitizen t1_iucwpwd wrote

That's also true for icb-cars, you can use the motor and transmission to brake, at least with manuals, I don't know about automatic. Still, regen braking has greater stopping power.

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icefire555 t1_iue0d5j wrote

Yes you can break with your engine. But I'm fairly certain you want to avoid that as you don't want to wear out your trans any faster than normal. Motors work in reverse when breaking and don't wear out as fast as breaking with your engine.

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