Interview Carsten Othmer (Volkswagen AG)
Within ARIA, Volkswagen AG has focused on a process known as “Interactive Aerodynamic Design.” This approach aims to speed up the iterative cycle between vehicle styling and aerodynamic assessment. The ROM methods addressed within ARIA are considered the key enablers for this process acceleration, as they promise to provide real-time predictions of aerodynamic performance for given designs.
- Which do you expect to be the potential benefits for VW’s customers if in the future your company adopts ARIA’s results? And more largely, for your business sector?
Adopting the ARIA results could offer several significant benefits for VW customers and the broader automotive industry:
i. Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Improved aerodynamic designs can lead to reduced air resistance, which in turn enhances energy efficiency. This means lower energy consumption and cost savings for customers.
ii. Increased Vehicle Performance: Better aerodynamics can improve vehicle stability and handling, providing a smoother and safer driving experience.
iii. Environmental Impact: By reducing energy consumption, the project results can contribute to lower CO2 emissions, supporting Volkswagen’s commitment to sustainability and helping customers reduce their environmental footprint.
iv. Innovative Design: The insights gained from an interactive aerodynamic design process can lead to more innovative and aesthetically pleasing vehicle designs, enhancing the overall appeal of Volkswagen vehicles.
2. What has the ARIA project brought to your company in terms of R&D quality, network knowledge and potential for innovation?
Through collaboration with various European partners, we have expanded our network and gained valuable insights from leading experts in the field. This exchange of knowledge specifically with academia and SMEs – has enriched each other’s understanding of the industrial challenges and innovative academic solutions, respectively, fostering a culture of focused methodological improvements. It has thus opened new avenues for innovation in the field of interactive aerodynamic design.
3. Would you continue the collaboration with your European partners?
The partnership has proven to be highly beneficial, providing valuable insights and fostering innovation. By working together with partners from academia and with SMEs, we have been able to leverage each other’s strengths and expertise, leading to a significant increase in the maturity of the ROM methods for vehicle aerodynamics. We believe that an ongoing collaboration will continue to drive that progress and innovation.