New image of rear wing - aero "mail slot" design?

[meyerweb]

From GM authority:



Haven't seen this posted yet. Looks like there's more than meets the eye to the rear spoiler. More details here:

http://gmauthority.com/blog/2018/09/...ler-in-detail/

[Sigmon]

Yeah, I hadn't noticed the mail slot until they pointed it out.

[John]

Thanks meyerweb. Here is the entire article with thanks and credit to GM Authority.

[Quote=GM Authority] New Spy Shots Show Mid-Engine Corvette’s Advanced Rear Spoiler In High Detail

• BY ALEX LUFT
• — SEP 11, 2018

The upcoming mid-engine Corvette continues to shed more and more camouflage as development begins to near completion, and the latest round of spy shots gives us our best look yet at the vehicle’s rear spoiler. General Shape


The spoiler spans the width of the mid-engine Corvette‘s rear end, with contact points giving way to two open-air winglets on either side of the wing.

Both of the spoiler’s winglets are under a relatively flat upper surface, while the central piece – the “bridge” – has a forward-facing shape reminiscent of a wicker bill.

Contact Points


At first glance, it would appear that the spoiler has three contact points. In fact, that’s exactly what we thought when originally looking at the unit. However, a closer examination reveals that the spoiler is actually mounted using four contact points – one on each outer edge and one on each side of the central bridge, as follows:

1. On the outermost edge of the driver-side rear quarter panel (horizontal and vertical contact)
2. On the outermost edge of the bridge, skewing toward the driver side (horizontal contact)
3. On the outermost edge of the bridge, skewing toward the passenger side (horizontal contact)
4. On the outermost edge of the passenger-side quarter panel (horizontal and vertical contact)

Notice that the space between mounting points 3 and 4 forms a raised space – colloquially called the “mail slot” – underneath the spoiler’s central bridge element. Form & Function


Besides tasty eye candy, the spoiler’s intricate design speaks to its functional purpose of providing aerodynamic enhancements, especially at high speeds.

Judging by the wing’s design, this will be one slippery Corvette, doing Zora proud. “Just” The Base


Notably, we are looking at the “base” model of the mid-engine Corvette, and expect higher-performing models to feature even more advanced wings with greater functionality. In fact, some mid-engine Corvette models will likely feature an active wing that varies deployment levels based on speed, along with various other factors. About The Mid-Engine Corvette


The mid-engine Corvette, commonly referred to as the Corvette C8 (for eight-generation Corvette), is an upcoming sports/supercar from General Motors’ Chevrolet brand. Expected to launch for the 2020 model year, the model is expected to deliver the first overhaul (redesign and re-engineering) of the Corvette since the 2014 model year, when the current seventh-generation model was launched.



The most notable change for the Corvette C8 is the switch to a mid-engine layout, which represents a significant departure in engineering compared to the first seven Corvette generations, which had a front-engine layout. The transformation is believed to be a result of engineers needing to deliver an even better driving experience and handling characteristics than the current model, especially at the limit. In that regard, a mid-engine layout allows for a higher performance envelope than the front-engine configuration.

The mid-engine Corvette is expected to be powered by several new gasoline engines mated to a dual-clutch automatic transmission. An electric or electrified variant is possible, potentially called Corvette E-Ray, which GM has already trademarked. One of the models will likely be called Corvette Manta Ray (also trademarked) and another Corvette Zora (trademarked as well) as a tribute to the first Corvette engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov. Nicknamed “Father of the Corvette”, Arkus-Duntov is credited with pioneering the idea of a mid-engine Corvette.



We expect the mid-engine Corvette to launch some time in 2019 for the 2020 model year. It will be made at the Corvette factory in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The current Corvette C7 will likely remain in production for several years alongside the new mid-engine model. A future replacement for the front-engine model is possible. Discussion

[John]

FVS and I postulated for about five months that the ME Corvette could well have a blown spoiler, a la Ferrari. I am not an aero engineer, but what I understand is that a blown spoiler reduces drag by allowing some air to escape below. While the Corvette ME’s mail slot version is a little different than the Ferrari’s, look to be like the same aero functionality.

[Racer X]

I seem to be in the minority but i like the new wing. Reminds me a lot of the wing spoiler for the C7.

[RoketRdr]

I seem to be in the minority but i like the new wing. Reminds me a lot of the wing spoiler for the C7.

I'm not too sure how I feel about the one on the C8 as I actually prefer my cars to be wingless. This one actually looks pretty good to me. Looks like it was part of the design of the car and not added on.

[Racer X]

I agree. It looks integrated.

[Frenzy36]

Love the look and functionality - Possibly Carbon Fiber Package Checkbox?

[JB]

As long as these rear wings are optional im good. I dont care about aero efficiency as much as smooth styling...so a small ducktail or active aero is preffered amd if i have a little extra drag id say there is a whole contingent of corvette buyers that ok with a little less aero efficency...

like different kinds of wheels, black chrome, polished etc...

the corvette team should offer two choices of rear spoilers or wings...or aero packages..

im not and 99 percent of us are not doing “ring “ runs.,,we just want the sleek corvette to look sophisticated ..

the pedestal wings as efficent as they maybe with mail slots etc...nobody cares...

give us a look that can carry a little more sophiticated country club action without looking like a track vehicle with the pedestal wing...its over the top and frowned upon by many..

the sleek smooth look wi5 the small ducktail we can pull off...the pediestal wing makes us look like we are trying to hard..

ferrari, most huracan s except the performante dont have these pedestal mail slot wings...mcclarens 570doesnt either...

its gosh says the crowd...

and for thise of us...or many of us..,its just an eye sore.

leave it as an option for the people who want to own the mail slot pedistal wing with its best in class aero..

[JustOneMore]

I agree with you completely. I love the Z51 spoiler on my C7, and trust the aftermarket will offer something if the factory offer is not to my liking.

[fvs]

Interesting detail of the Mail Slot area of the spoiler.

A post on "another forum" started to question this center area and suggested it may be a "passive" spoiler section that could act as a sort of Blown spoiler John was talking about above.

The center section "mail slot" is very narrow and would not seem to serve much purpose. At higher speeds, the air load would tend to push that center section down on the body, possibly closing the gap. Maybe this is the idea?

A polimer wing designed to deflect and deform/change shapes due to different pressure loads would be possible.

A concern for me would be rubbing of the paint over time but I am sure GM has this figured out,,,? ; )

[PaulChristian]

the sleek smooth look wi5 the small ducktail we can pull off...the pediestal wing makes us look like we are trying to hard..

I'll admit, I got a great laugh out of seeing, what had to be at least a 75 year old, driving in the fast lane (at 60mph) with his ZR1 track package wing. He was sporting his giant black glasses too. I want to ride like that when I am 75. Not only was he in the fast lane doing no more than 60mph, but he flicked me off when I gave him a thumbs up as I approached his passenger side door on the highway. I assume he thought the honks coming from behind him came from me.

still the one and only ZR1 I have seen on the streets.

[Frenzy36]

Interesting detail of the Mail Slot area of the spoiler.

A post on "another forum" started to question this center area and suggested it may be a "passive" spoiler section that could act as a sort of Blown spoiler John was talking about above.

The center section "mail slot" is very narrow and would not seem to serve much purpose. At higher speeds, the air load would tend to push that center section down on the body, possibly closing the gap. Maybe this is the idea?

A polimer wing designed to deflect and deform/change shapes due to different pressure loads would be possible.

A concern for me would be rubbing of the paint over time but I am sure GM has this figured out,,,? ; )

FVS , I'm sure that spoiler isn't moving . You won't have to worry about it rubbing. It appears to be slippery in that the downforce created is able to pass without causing drag on the vehicle. Appears there has been some wind tunnel involvement to make it efficient and functional. I absolutely love it.

[fvs]

FVS , I'm sure that spoiler isn't moving . You won't have to worry about it rubbing. It appears to be slippery in that the downforce created is able to pass without causing drag on the vehicle. Appears there has been some wind tunnel involvement to make it efficient and functional. I absolutely love it.

I'm sure you're right. I just thought that the gap in the center is so minimal...almost touching the deck already, that if there is heavy pressure load it could rub. I am sure they have considered this. Just wonder why the gap is so small. Must be reasons. Can't wait for the videos explaining all the tech.

...I wonder if that small gap could create a whistling note like a reed in a clarinet ? ; )

[Mobius]

...I wonder if that small gap could create a whistling note like a reed in a clarinet ? ; )

Maybe acting like a deer whistle...

Deer -- the deadliest animal in North America.