Maximum tractive force
The total tire force (Ft), at a given speed v, can be found if the power available at the tires (Pt) is known:
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(1) |
Converting engine power to wheel power (more)
Top speed
From equation (1) and equation (1b) from the accelerating page, we get: (more)
|
(2) |
Where:
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And:
| ρ | = atmospheric air density (= 1.225 kg/m³) |
| CDA | = Drag factor |
| CLA | = Lift factor |
| m | = vehicle mass |
| g | = gravitational acceleration (= 9.80665 m/s²) |
| fr | = rolling resistance coefficient |
*Note: If we neglect rolling resistance (fr = 0) then we can simplify to
.
| vmax= |
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