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2018 Chevy Equinox Design Team Enhanced Aero, Interior Space

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Equinox Lead Exterior Designer Jeff Perkins discusses the aerodynamic optimization of the all-new 2018 Equinox

Equinox Lead Exterior Designer Jeff Perkins discusses the aerodynamic optimization of the all-new 2018 Equinox

Chevrolet is touting the redesign of the all-new 2018 Equinox, which increases the SUV’s interior space, while still retaining its EPA-estimated 32 mpg highway fuel economy rating.

Chevy credits its Design and Aerodynamics team with balancing style, function, and efficiency in the compact SUV.

“Working closely with the aerodynamics team, we were able to craft a final design that is the ultimate win-win scenario,” said Equinox Design Manager Jeff Perkins. “Together we reached the aerodynamic goals intended to give the new Equinox an efficiency-enhancing edge on the highway with the sculpted look and cargo space we set out to achieve.”

The team managed the neat trick of reducing the new Equinox’s overall size while increasing the amount of space inside. The vehicle’s length was reduced by 4.7 inches, while the interior volume was upped with an additional 3.5 cubic feet.


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A shorter shape moves through the air less cleanly than a longer, more cylindrical one, posing an additional challenge to the Aerodynamics team. One solution was to add new, electronically controlled upper and lower grille shutters, which close during certain driving conditions when engine cooling is less necessary, reducing drag.

A larger rear spoiler, “air trips” at the edges of the taillamps and corners of the D-pillars, new tire deflectors, and underbody panels on FWD models were also added for enhanced aero.

After over 500 hours in GM’s full-scale wind tunnel, the 2018 Chevy Equinox emerged with a design that reduces wind resistance by 10% over the previous model.

“Aerodynamic performance is a big contributor to fuel economy, but the box-like shapes of crossovers and SUVs are not conducive to aero efficiency,” said Nick Lico, Global Aerodynamics development lead. “Working with Design, we were able to craft an athletic shape that is both attractive and segment-leading in aero efficiency.”

The 2018 Chevy Equinox is currently on sale, with an MSRP starting at $24,475.


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