Gm Global Technolgoy Operations, Inc.

Nicholas D Theis

Michael McGuire

Scott W Damman

Nicholas A Barra

Vehicles and methods for controlling operation of a vehicle and/or reducing aerodynamic drag of a vehicle are provided. A method for controlling operation of an unoccupied vehicle includes determining that the vehicle is unoccupied. The method further includes identifying an energy savings resulting from a reduction of aerodynamic drag of the vehicle due to a controlled vibration of a component of the vehicle. Also, the method includes applying the controlled vibration to the component of the vehicle.

Vehicles and methods for reducing aerodynamic drag of vehicles

A system for reconfiguring a vehicle geometry is disclosed. The system includes a configuration system configured to alter the vehicle geometry, a communication system, and a controller in communication with the configuration system and the communication system, the controller configured to receive a configuration signal from the communication system, determine a configuration control signal, and automatically control the configuration system based on the control signal.

Methods and systems for reconfiguring a vehicle geometry

An automotive vehicle includes traction wheels, a powertrain configured to transmit drive power to the traction wheels, a sensor configured to detect a presence of an occupant, an actuator configured to control vehicle steering, acceleration, braking, or shifting, and at least one controller configured to automatically control the actuator based on an automated driving system algorithm. The powertrain is selectively operable in a first mode having a first operating characteristic and a second mode having a second operating characteristic. The controller is further configured to control the powertrain in the first mode in response to the sensor detecting an occupant being present and the actuator being controlled based on the automated driving system algorithm, and in the second mode in response to the sensor detecting no occupant being present and the actuator being controlled based on the automated driving system algorithm.

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St. Johns, MI, United States of America

Nicholas D Theis