The Technical Deep Dive: Beyond Basic CFD
Here's where our process gets more sophisticated. While many companies run basic CFD simulations using black box packages with limited understanding of the mathematics in the underlying code, we employ the same advanced techniques Scott helped develop in Formula 1 using varying mathematical models to get the most accurate results for a given amount of computational overhead.
Mesh Independence Studies
We systematically refine our computational mesh until results converge, ensuring our simulations aren't compromised by insufficient resolution. Our typical automotive simulation uses over 100 million cells—far exceeding what most aftermarket companies consider necessary. We use up to 15 inflation layers on the vehicle and the wing to capture regions of separation accurately. Whilst meshing is disregarded as just a part of the setup process to get the fancy images by some, we pride ourselves on the ability to generate world class meshes using our novel approach, as the accuracy comes from capturing the flow behaviour and reducing the ongoing error generation that can propagate downstream if you get it wrong!
Delayed Detached Eddy Simulation (DES)
Custom Software: Optimizing for Speed and Precision
While we can't reveal all the details yet we're not just using off-the-shelf CFD software. Scott has recently developed custom interfaces to streamline our workflow with OpenFOAM and integrate seamlessly with AWS infrastructure and our local machines.
This isn't about reinventing the wheel—it's about removing bottlenecks that slow down the development process. Faster iterations mean we can explore more design options and ultimately deliver better products to our customers. We’ve developed and validated the backend software and scripts to run high fidelity RANS and DDES simulations and now we’ve streamlined that entire process into one simple (yet unattractive) interface. Davis might lend Scott a hand to redesign it for aesthetics, not just performance!
Results That Matter: Beyond Marketing Claims
Our CFD-driven approach delivers measurable improvements across our entire product range, here are some examples:
BMW M4 Competition
Porsche 911 GT3
Toyota Supra
Variable Angle-of-Attack Testing
Track Testing
For some vehicles (especially the really fun ones), we spent time both on the road and at the racetrack to understand how the kit feels from a driver’s perspective. Using a VBOX HD2 GPS-based logger — accurate down to the centimeter — we were also able to capture meaningful changes in cornering speeds.
In July 2025, Scott had the opportunity to test our prototype components in the UK alongside current F1 driver Liam Lawson (thanks to our friends at AutoID — much appreciated!). He described the experience as “both amazing and terrifying.” The recorded lap time data matched perfectly with the step-by-step aerodynamic gains: stock vehicle → ADRO V1 kit → V2 prototype kit, each showing about a **30% increase in downforce**. This progression shaved seconds off lap times while crucially maintaining overall vehicle balance. Cornering speeds improved dramatically, with almost no change to top speed.
The Competitive Reality:
Why This Approach Matters
ADRO can operate with F1-level computational resources and validation standards, firstly because our CTO has done this before, and secondly, because we're not constrained by racing regulations that limit computational power or testing time. We can run simulations that exceed what current F1 teams use in some cases, simply because we have the freedom to optimize for pure performance (accuracy and time) rather than regulatory compliance.
Looking Forward:
The Future of Automotive Aerodynamics
The automotive industry is evolving rapidly, with electrification changing vehicle architecture and opening new aerodynamic possibilities. Our CFD-first approach positions ADRO to lead this evolution, developing solutions that optimize for the unique requirements of electric vehicles through the use of our bespoke optimization software while maintaining the performance focus that defines our brand. Our CTO, Scott is always on the lookout for the next big step in technology that we can implement and has recently been exploring (and building) neural network AI based inference software to help speed up development iterations and also has been exploring Lattice Boltzmann Methods now that they are maturing and becoming more robust vs typical Navier-Stokes based methods.
The Bottom Line
When you choose ADRO, you're not just buying aerodynamic modifications—you're investing in a process that treats every vehicle like a championship contender. Our CFD methodology ensures that every wing, splitter, and diffuser we create delivers measurable performance improvements, not just visual impact.
The result? Products that perform as impressively as they look, backed by the same engineering rigor that helps F1 cars slice through air at 300+ km/h.
Ready to experience F1-level aerodynamics on your vehicle? Explore our complete range of CFD-validated performance modifications at www.adro.com
