How Hendrick Motorsports uses simulation software to improve fuel efficiency and performance

Описание: Discover how Hendrick Motorsports leverages advanced simulation and design software to optimize performance while advancing sustainability in stock car racing. This video explores the engineering challenges and solutions that help one of racing's most successful teams compete within strict regulatory limits.

Hendrick Motorsports engineers discuss how they use Design Center NX, Teamcenter, and Simcenter STAR-CCM+ to transform their development process. With the sport's defined regulations limiting both wind tunnel and CFD time, the team must find performance gains in very small margins. The integration of these tools enables collaborative engineering where design engineers and aerodynamicists work side by side, shortening time to track and improving results.

The video highlights how simulation has replaced physical prototyping for engine development and component testing. Where teams once manufactured and tested ten different physical parts to evaluate designs, they now use optimization capabilities to develop better designs with fewer iterations, less time, and reduced compute resources. This approach not only accelerates development but also reduces fuel consumption, electricity usage, and dyno time.

Engineers explain how the seamless integration between Design Center NX and Simcenter STAR-CCM+ allows multiple team members to work simultaneously on different assembly components. CFD designers can quickly identify opportunities, make changes, and rerun simulations, enabling rapid iteration and continuous improvement. The optimization routines help create race cars with improved downforce and reduced drag, directly impacting fuel mileage—a critical factor in this competitive series.

Sustainability extends beyond fuel efficiency to improving employee workflows and reducing costs while maintaining competitive performance. By making engineering processes more efficient through digital tools, Hendrick Motorsports demonstrates how advanced software contributes to both racing success and operational sustainability.