Developing a framework for improving aerodynamic efficiency of electric vehicles using Computational Fluid Dynamics to achieve net zero requirement

About the Project

Electric vehicles are gradually becoming more popular than fuel-based vehicles in the UK, despite their higher price. Full electric (plug-in) and hybrid versions are considered environmentally friendly and are classified as electric vehicles. The UK government has announced that no more fuel-based vehicles will be produced for the market by 2030. However, electric vehicles still have disadvantages compared to fuel-based vehicles, particularly when it comes to travel distance due to limited battery capacity and technology. Improving aerodynamics through streamlining and defining active aerodynamic components is one way to extend their range, which is especially important for electric vehicles, as improved aerodynamics can increase their range and reduce energy consumption. The proposed doctoral research aims to develop a framework for improving aerodynamic efficiency in electric vehicles using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The ideal candidate will have a good understanding of CFD as well as a strong interest in electric vehicles

The PhD Programme

The DMU PhD provides a solid education for a research career, whether you stay in academic research or move to industry. There is a well-developed Researcher Development Programme which you will undertake alongside your research, supporting you through each year of your PhD. Working closely with your supervisors, you will undertake open-ended research. As part of a vibrant PhD community in the Faculty you will have training opportunities which lead to presentations at international conferences and in writing papers in leading academic journals as the research progresses into the later stages of the PhD. The student will graduate with skills and knowledge at the forefront of academic and industrial expectations.

Entry Requirements

You must have achieved or close to achieving a UK Honours Degree with at least an upper second class (2:1) or a Masters Degree or an academic or professional qualification with relevant experience in the sector or industry, which is deemed to be equivalent, or international equivalent

Closing date: 1 year from the date of uploading. Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Starting date: There are three intakes a year at DMU and it is expected the successful candidate will start either in January 2026, April 2026 or October 2026.

How to apply:

To apply for a research degree, you will need to apply via our Admissions Portal https://dmuhub.dmu.ac.uk/apply/index.html. You are required to provide the documentation as listed within section 5b at https://www.dmu.ac.uk/doctoral-college/how-to-apply/how-to-apply.aspx

Studied at DMU previously? If you have studied at DMU previously, please submit the documentation listed in 5b via email to pgradmissions@dmu.ac.uk, not through the admissions portal. You will also need to complete and attach our application form and annexe form alongside the documents requested below:

You will need to select a programme code when applying from a list of research degree programme codes. Please select the programme code closest to your research proposal.

Funding Notes

This is a self-funded project and you will need to have sufficient funds in place (e.g., through a scholarship, personal funds and or other sources) to meet the tuition feeds and living expenses for the duration of the degree programme.

DMU has information of scholarships and other funding opportunities at View Website