Gasgoo Munich - Gasgoo reported on Jan. 22 that the Luxeed R7 recently cleared the wind tunnel test at CATARC, recording a drag coefficient of 0.217. That figure sets a new global low for mass-production SUVs.
The drag coefficient is a core metric for aerodynamic performance, directly influencing energy efficiency, high-speed stability, and NVH levels.
Image Credit: Luxeed
Currently, the vehicles with the lowest global drag coefficients are mostly sedans. The Dongfeng Forthing S7 leads the pack at 0.191Cd, followed closely by the Arcfox Alpha S5 at 0.1925Cd and the Stelato S9 at 0.193Cd.
For the Luxeed R7, however, achieving 0.217Cd as an SUV presents a significant engineering challenge given the taller body's natural limitations on airflow management. Standard SUVs in this segment typically clock in above 0.25Cd.
The engineering team reportedly pushed deep into the vehicle's styling development. The front features a sloping hood and an active grille that effectively manages airflow. A fastback roofline connects smoothly with the aggressively raked A- and D-pillars, preventing turbulence at the rear. Additionally, the body sides use flush door handles and a fully flat underbody cover, while details like the exterior mirrors and wheels were sculpted to minimize resistance. Together, these designs significantly cut aerodynamic drag while driving.
The payoff from low drag shows up directly in performance. Given identical battery capacity and power, a lower coefficient translates to longer range—especially at higher speeds, where energy optimization is most pronounced. At the same time, superior aerodynamic design helps improve stability and quietness at highway speeds.
As the electric vehicle market demands ever-higher efficiency, aerodynamics has become an increasingly critical part of vehicle development.
