In 1978 gasoline was selling for .63 cents a gallon and forward thinkers had decided then to create an annual competition that would pit college and university teams against each other in design, construction, and endurance of open-wheel race cars. This competition was (and still is) known as the Formula SAE and while 30 years is nothing to scoff at, what we find most pertinent of late is what has taken place the past two years of the competition. In only its second year, the contest has introduced a new and exciting concept: The Formula Hybrid.
Each entry to this newly developed class must be a genuine hybrid (with both an internal combustion and electric power-source). Just like with the Formula SAE, entrants are evaluated on presentation, performance, and endurance. Here’s where things get interesting however, the Formula Hybrid class allots each team a limited amount of fuel to work with. The idea? To maximize hybrid technology by reaching the checkered flag well after the tank’s run dry.
This competition presents technological challenges for students with backgrounds in electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering. Formula Hybrid encourages interdisciplinary teamwork and innovation but best of all it is a means of ensuring the world’s future engineers a foundation in hybrid technology. Whereas in years past, gasoline engines were sufficient in powering the entrants, this latest transition is a sign of the times and a direct result of concerns of rising fuel costs/ limited fossil fuel reserves.
At this rate of progression, it wouldn’t be surprising to see future offshoots to the competition that will include biofuel powered engines, full electric race cars, and alternative energy resources. Consider this: Upon graduation many of these students take positions within the automotive industry. Mere innovations today could become standard equipment in the vehicles we drive tomorrow.
