An initial investigation of an optimisation based approach for design across a continuous range of operating conditions is presented. The objective for this 'operations based optimisation' approach is to avoid the need to choose critical design point conditions and associated weighting factors by tackling the overall operational performance instead. The approach integrates numerical optimisation, response surface modelling, CFD and operational simulation. An optimisation test bed involving the aerodynamic optimisation of a Champ Car rear wing assembly for reduced lap time using track simulation has been developed to assess the new optimisation approach. Details of the operations based optimisation approach and the Champ Car test bed are reported. Results generated using the new approach are presented and the wider potential of the approach for aerospace applications is discussed. NomenclatureC D = drag coefficient for full car C L = downforce coefficient for full car C Dc = drag coefficient for main car chassis with contribution of rear wing assembly removed C Lc = downforce coefficient for main car chassis with contribution of rear wing assembly removed C Drw = drag coefficient for rear wing assembly calculated in isolation with onset conditions C Lrw = downforce coefficient for rear wing assembly calculated in isolation with onset conditions K = suspension force coefficient LT = lap time m = total mass of car µ = tyre coefficient of friction P = engine power r = yaw rate rh = car ride height R = local radius of curvature along racing line V = speed of car