Formula SAE team chases first place

Designing, building and racing a Formula-style race car has challenged a team of Swinburne University students to take on a practical project as part of their studies.

The mechanical engineering students have taken out second place in the annual Formula SAE competition, a four-day race against 26 other universities at Victoria University's Industrial Skills Centre in Werribee.

According to Chief Dynamics Engineer on the team, Doug Gibb, the hands-on nature of the project is something that students thrive on.

"I most enjoyed putting theory into practice, and working on a project where you can drive the end result," Gibb said.

Sean Lewis, Chief Powertrain Engineer, said the teamwork aspect was something he particularly enjoyed.

"The best part of being in a team is forging and growing friendships over the year whilst also being able to enjoy the success of the car together," Lewis said.

Alongside coming second in the race, Team Swinburne was also awarded in the events Autocross, Endurance, Combined Endurance and Economy and was placed second in the Fisita Engineering Excellence Award.

Following their success in the competition, the team is now seeking sponsorship for their car to compete in the Formula SAE event in the USA with some of the best racing teams on the country’s West Coast.