Aero maps are crucial to optimise racecar set-up. But what actually is an aero map and how do you build one for your own racecar"
CREDIT: AirShaper

What is an Aero Map"
A map is a way of visualising the relationship between different parameters. For example, a geographical map can show altitude as a function of longitude and latitude. In the case of a racecar the aerodynamic lift, drag and balance can be shown as a function of car set-up such as front and rear ride height or rear wing angle. So, an aero map effectively visualises the relationship between the geometrical properties and the aerodynamic properties of a racecar.  
CREDIT: AirShaper

How do you use an aero map"
CREDIT: AirShaper Aero maps are one of the many tools that help engineers to build a model of a racecar. These models are then used to predict the behaviour of the car to different set-up changes. Being able to investigate and quickly understand the effect of different set-up changes is essential when the driver, track and conditions change which is why modelling has become such a critical part of motorsport engineering.
So if you wanted to find how the aero balance (percentage of total downforce on the front axle), would change if you lowered the front ride height by 3mm, how would you use an aero map" Firstly, let?s look at an example of an aero map. For a range of front and rear ride heights, the amount of downforce can be visualised b...