Apollo Tyres has just revealed that its Dutch subsidiary Vredestein partnered with Porsche to co-develop a variable front spoiler for the new 911 Turbo and Turbo S models. The unique partnership saw Vredestein leverage ApolloTyre’s global R&D centre at Enschede, Netherlands that was inaugurated in 2013 and has been primarily involved in tyre and rubber-related research.
Branded ‘Air Master by Vredestein’, the variable spoiler is an integrated part of the Porsche Active Aerodynamics system and is protected with a series of patents by both the partners. The spoiler is unique for its ability to adapt to changing speeds. At low speeds, the spoiler retracts beneath the bumper to ensure maximum ground clearance. At higher speeds, the spoiler extends on the outside to optimise the airflow around the wheels and reduce fuel consumption. In the performance position, the spoiler is fully extended to create extra downforce on the front wheels to aid road-holding.The spoiler is powered pneumatically with several air chambers that give it the required shape.
ApolloTyre’s expertise was involved in the area of developing a special EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber, with the desired flexibility to adapt to the changing aerodynamic requirements.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Dipan Sur
Dhruv Dhaka
