R-Pod frontal area

Multiplying width * height from the brochure specs (6'5" x 8'8") yields 56.61 sq. ft. That includes the air conditioner in the height figure, so it is somewhat less, since the AC does not cover the whole width of the roof. In any case, it is over 30 sq. ft.

I found the AeroPlus from PurpleLine USA.
http://www.purplelineusa.com/products-aeroplus.php

This helps to change the dynamic and makes towing easier since it improves the airflow, reducing drag. I have noticed a significant increase in fuel mileage since I purchased this and installed it. I am towing with a 2016 Ford Escape SE with factory tow package and 2L Ecoboost engine. I really do recommend this. I only have this installed while towing, as PurpleLine states to limit the speed to 60 mph while it is installed. Also, to have it installed while not towing would be bad for vehicle mileage.



I installed this using nylock nuts instead of the plastic hand-tightened nuts. They would have pressed against the car roof, which was unacceptable. It is also quite easy to install and remove the cross-bar with the AeroPlus attached, much easier than trying to attach it to the cross-bar while it is installed. I had to do some small modifications to adjust for the low height of the cross bars so that the bolts would not dig into the car roof also. This involved adding more spacers between the plastic shield and the bracket that sits on top of the cross-bar.

Originally posted by furpod A member who was a hydraulic engineer did a bunch of laminar flow studies and such in the first year, finding that A) the pod isn't near as aerodynamic as we think, and B) the Effective frontal area was just a smidge under 49sqft.

Thanks. I did not know that. It adds to my contention that a wind deflector which helps to improve airflow can be beneficial. I purchased the AeroPlus direct from purplelineusa.com. The only other choice for a removable deflector seems to be the Icon Direct AeroShield. There is one for pickup trucks called a Taylor Wing, but it is quite expensive. It is made of metal though and not plastic.

I have noticed a significant difference in my towing with the AeroPlus. Once we start traveling this summer and can use it over longer distances, I will be able to get a better understanding of how much it helps. The instantaneous and average mileage readouts in my car definitely show the improvement on the short trips between the dealer and where we live.

Interesting tidbit.. Our 31 foot Airstream is twice as long, and twice as heavy as the pod. It IS rounded on the front edges, not just the roof.. We get the EXACT same MPG towing it as the pod.

Originally posted by CharlieM Originally posted by furpod Interesting tidbit.. Our 31 foot Airstream is twice as long, and twice as heavy as the pod. It IS rounded on the front edges, not just the roof.. We get the EXACT same MPG towing it as the pod. It's all about the parachute effect, but a better question is "Why are you still towing the AS?" Where's the Lance?

Have not towed it lately.. Lance is in production soon..

Then it is worth carrying for the fuel savings alone. Never hurts to be prepared for high water either.