The reduction of energy consumption of rail vehicles with aerodynamic optimization

Rising energy prices and the vital necessity to reduce CO2 emissions to address climate change are factors that are encouraging Bombardier to focus on rail vehicle aerodynamic performance. In the development of ZEFIRO, Bombardierrs latest high-speed train, the need for leading edge aerodynamics has been critical. At high speeds, aerodynamic performance gains greater significance as drag more markedly impacts energy consumption, yet optimization of aerodynamic drag in isolation can compromise safety related considerations such as vehicle wake and cross-wind stability.