What is aerodynamic downforce and how is it generated?

Downforce is aerodynamic force pushing the vehicle toward the ground, improving tire grip without adding weight. It is generated by creating low pressure above the body (shaped like inverted wing), rear spoilers/wings deflecting airflow upward, flat underbody with rear diffuser, and front splitters. Performance cars may generate hundreds of kilograms of downforce at high speed. The trade-off is increased drag; active aerodynamics can optimize this balance by adjusting elements at different speeds.