A chassis dynamometer, often referred to by the popular brand name “Mustang,” measures the power delivered to the wheels of a vehicle. Software applications, often called “power loss calculators,” use this wheel horsepower measurement to estimate the power produced at the engine’s crankshaft. This calculation accounts for power losses through the drivetrain, including the transmission, driveshaft, differential, and axles. For example, a vehicle might measure 280 horsepower at the wheels, but after accounting for drivetrain loss, the estimated crankshaft horsepower could be 320.
Understanding drivetrain loss is crucial for accurate performance assessment. This information allows for more effective modifications and tuning, leading to optimized engine output and vehicle performance. Historically, estimating this loss relied on simplified percentage estimations. However, modern software and dynamometer technology provide more precise calculations, accounting for variables like drivetrain type, gear ratios, and even operating temperature, ultimately yielding more accurate representations of engine power.