Thesis work - Aerodynamic force modeling for driving simulator

About this opportunity - Background

Aerodynamic forces significantly influence vehicle stability, particularly at high speeds. Traditionally, these effects are assessed in the later stages of development, once physical prototypes are available. By leveraging Volvo Cars driving simulator, part of this evaluation can be conducted earlier in the process, helping to mitigate the risk of late-stage design changes. Previous research has shown that both the mean and the fluctuating parts of aerodynamic forces influence vehicle stability. For the fluctuations, there are certain frequency ranges that are critical for stability. 
The goal of this work is to investigate how a continuous, unsteady force signal with the correct frequency content and temporal correlation between components can be generated for the driving simulator in real time. 
Keywords: Aerodynamics, vehicle dynamics, vehicle stability, signal processing

What You'll Get 

•    The opportunity to work with a challenge that is of high relevance for Volvo Cars 
•    Access to and experience working with a state-of-the-art driving simulator 
•    Knowledge of the tools used for aerodynamic development, computational fluid dynamics and Volvo Cars aerodynamic wind tunnel 
•    Get to know, and be part of, both the aerodynamic and vehicle dynamic teams 

Scope of the thesis work

The objective is to use data from computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and wind tunnel measurements to develop a model that generates signals for the driving simulator. The work can be divided into the following subtasks: 
i    Identify relevant signal attributes that should be preserved in the generated signals. 
ii    Develop a model that can generate relevant signals for the driving simulator in real time. 
iii    Evaluate the model in the driving simulator together with an experienced test driver. 

What you'll bring

•    MSc student in Applied Physics, Mathematics, Mechanics, Engineering, or a related field (ready for thesis work in 2026)
•    Proficient programming skills
•    Experience with signal processing
•    Experience working with CFD or other 1D/2D simulation tools (advantageous)
•    Strong background in fluid mechanics and/or vehicle aerodynamics (advantageous)
•    Familiarity with vehicle dynamic concepts (advantageous)
•    Collaborative mindset and effective communication skills
•    Fluency in English, both spoken and written

Part of the thesis must be done on-site at Volvo Cars Corporation, Gothenburg, Sweden.

Duration

•    Start Date: Tentatively scheduled for the 19th of January 2026 (exact date to be mutually agreed upon by the student, supervisor, and university)
•    Duration: 20 weeks
•    Academic Credits: 30 ECTS (subject to approval by the university thesis advisor/examiner)
•    This thesis project can be undertaken by either one student or a pair of students working collaboratively