A race car project turns 20
It’s just as cool as it sounds. KTH Formula Student is a project evolving around a race car. This year, the KTH Formula Student project turns 20, and it was thoroughly celebrated with a full-day event.
Every year KTH students start a new project with the goal to design, manufacture, test and compete with a race car in the international Formula Student competition.
This year, KTH Formula Student (KTHFS) turns 20 and the anniversary was celebrated by an eventful day at KTH. Together with the competence centre Design & Management of Manufacturing Systems – DMMS , KTHFS hosted a full-day event showcasing the history of the project with past and present team members, faculty and industry partners.
The attendees were treated to a car show, where partners witnessed the latest KTHFS car design in action, demonstrating its capabilities. The event also featured a productive panel discussion, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between industry, academia, and research for driving innovation and advancement. Scania and Sandvik Coromant, shared the latest advancements and trends in the field of manufacturing and the alumni presentations provided inspiring stories of success, highlighting how their involvement in KTHFS paved the way for thriving careers in the automotive industry.
Why is this project important at KTH?
“Hosting a Formula Student team offers significant benefits to a university like KTH. It provides students with practical application of knowledge, skill development in teamwork and problem-solving, and valuable industry engagement through collaborations and mentorships. The team's successes enhance the university's reputation, foster a strong alumni network, and promote STEM education,” says Maran Tirougnanassambandamourty , researcher at the Department of Production Engineering.
“It also strengthens our profile in vehicle engineering and producing highly skilled graduates ready for the industry.”
How do the KTH race cars do in the actual competitions? Any wins?
“KTH Formula Student has a memorable track record in the Formula Student competitions. While these competitions are not traditional races but car design competitions, KTHFS has consistently showcased exceptional engineering designs and capabilities since their participation began in 2004. For example, the improved aero package enhances performance and reduces drag; the new monocoque structure improves handling, and the electric powertrain optimizations deliver increased power and efficiency. Additionally, the exploration of driverless technologies showcases the team’s adaptability and readiness for the future of automotive innovation. These advancements highlight KTHFS's technical skills and commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and technology in competitions.”
Text: Anna Gullers