On Tuesday, 30 July 2024, the University of Cape Town's Electrical and Mechanical Engineering students launched the Formula Student Africa UCT racing team (FSA UCT). The team aims to design and build a single-seater electric formula car for the prestigious Formula Student (FS) competition in 2026.
The team comprises a dedicated group of undergraduate and Master's students, all driven by a shared passion for innovation and sustainability in automotive engineering.
With hopes of inspiring a new generation of engineers and secure the necessary resources to win the competition, the team is committed to integrating cutting-edge electrical technologies to enhance the car's efficiency and performance. Key features include a high-powered density motor, a lithium phosphate battery with a built-in Battery Management System (BMS), and a diffuser to optimise speed.
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Formula Student Africa launches at UCT
The Formula Student Africa (FSA) team at the University of Cape Town (UCT) unveiled their ambitious project on 30 July in the Menzies building on UCT’s upper campus.
FSA extends the global Formula Student initiative, challenging university students to design and build electric formula-style race cars. FSA UCT, in particular, emphasises innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and sustainability among African students.
FSA UCT’s mission is to “design, build, and race the best-performing E-Formula student car from scratch”. Their vision aligns with this mission, aiming to “promote technical prowess, project management, teamwork, and entrepreneurship skills, contributing to the global drive for eco-friendly automotive solutions”.
Pioneering engineering excellence
The Department of Electrical Engineering at UCT plays a pivotal role in supporting the FSA UCT project. It provides the resources necessary for students to explore innovative solutions and refine their engineering designs.
Technical support from experienced faculty and staff, under the supervision of Associate Professor David Oyedokun, is crucial to the project’s success. The head of the Department of Electrical Engineering, Professor Azeem Khan, delivered a formal welcome at the launch event. He highlighted the ambitious nature of the student-led project and emphasised its multidisciplinary approach. “We look forward to this project being a resounding success, and as a flagship project of not only the department but of the faculty [of Engineering & the Built Environment] and the university also,” he said.
The FSA UCT project aligns with UCT’s Vision 2030, which focuses on nurturing a diverse and creative student body, offering transformative and sustainable education. By encouraging research that addresses complex contemporary issues, FSA UCT exemplifies UCT’s commitment to fostering innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.
“Everything is run and all the final decisions must be made by students.”
Representing the mechanical team, Sadman Ahmed focused on the functionality of the car, detailing the design and engineering efforts that ensure the vehicle’s performance and safety. As a representative of the electrical team, Nyakallo Peete discussed the electrical systems integrated into the car; while Sohail Singh speaking for the business team, highlighted the importance of securing sponsorships and partnerships. He acknowledged the support from RS Components (SA), a leading provider of industrial and electronic solution; and Shortlist Professionals, who assisted in identifying sponsors and promoting the team.
The FSA UCT team aims to complete the project within a two-year timeline and plans to enter the global competition in 2026. Alex McLeod, the founder of Formula Student Africa, joined the event virtually to thank those present for their support. Associate Professor Oyedokun also spoke, reinforcing the importance of the project and the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
In his closing remarks, Eyasim said, “UCT offers more than just a degree. You do get a lot of opportunities within UCT.” He pointed out that UCT provides opportunities, such as FSA UCT, for students to engage in transformative projects that prepare them for real-world challenges.
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