Software
The aerodynamics of vehicle designs such are heavily analyzed. You can use tools like Autodesk Simulation CFD to calculate the coefficient of drag.
Understanding fluid dynamics is vital to creating energy efficient designs. To reduce energy losses, learn how to minimize fluid drag, viscous drag, and major and minor head losses.
Review the wheel hub design and see an overview of the parametric optimization techniques in Autodesk Inventor used to reduce its mass.
Project Gallery Examples
Chinese students from Tongji University use FEA in Autodesk Inventor to help lightweight the aluminum and carbon-fiber frame of their ultra-mileage electric vehicle. The result is a car that weighs 55 kg (120 lbs) and can travel 347 kilometers with one kilowatt hour of power (7,250 MPGe).