Apollo Tyres Ltd. announced its R&D team developed the new, variable front spoiler of the recently introduced Porsche 911 turbo and 911 turbo S in an exclusive partnership with Porsche AG.
Branded as “Air Masterby Vredestein,” the spoiler is made with ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber and is protected with a series of patents by both partners.
“I am quite excited with this innovation by the team, especially because the team has gone beyond the usual tire-related research,” says Peter Snel, chief, R&D (PV) for Apollo.
“The variable front spoiler is made with a specially developed EPDM rubber, which combines flexibility, to adapt to the required aerodynamics under all weather conditions and ambient temperatures, with the strength and elasticity to withstand impact damage from road particles.”
At low speeds, the spoiler retracts beneath the bumper to ensure maximum ground clearance, allowing the 911 turbo to pass speed bumps without a hitch. At higher speeds, the spoiler extends on the outside to optimize 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 which, combined with the fully extracted rear wing, results in exceptional road-holding.
The spoiler is powered pneumatically with several air chambers giving it the required shape. The entire system was developed by a dedicated cross functional team from Apollo Tyres R&D and Apollo Vredestein manufacturing. All production processes were also developed by the team internally, and actual production of these spoilers have been started in a special production cell few months back.
