A group of 6 Mechanical Engineering Seniors, under the guidance of Professor Fitzhorn, developed a running Formula Hybrid-style racecar during the academic year.
Formula Hybrid is based on a Formula SAE chassis and the basic Formula SAE rules a new competition focusing on gasoline-electric hybrid powertrains has been developed. The first dynamic event is scheduled for late-spring 2007. The competition challenges students to modify an existing Formula SAE chassis to accept a gasoline engine no larger than 250cc and incorporate additional electric components to create a hybrid racecar.
CSU's Formula Hybrid was developed from the 1998 Formula SAE racecar. A 250cc Kawasaki twin cylinder engine was using in
parallel with a 10HP UNIQ Mobility electric motor. Nickel metal hydride batteries were used as a weight saving measure. The students faced many challenges during the design and implementation that took place at the MERC, but were ultimately rewarded when they were finally able to drive the racecar in hybrid mode. The Team's project and presentation were a favorite among the College of Engineerings E-Days judges.
