Powertrain/Drivetrain

Powertrain and drivetrain are the core of a running vehicle. The powertrain provides the car with the power it needs to move and accelerate. Meanwhile, the drivetrain takes that power and drives the vehicle forward. The powertrain needs to ensure the vehicle has a good starting torque to ensure the vehicle propels forward along with being as efficient as it can. The drivetrain needs to ensure the vehicle is getting an adequate amount of power supplied by the powertrain, and the vehicle is propelling forward with as minimal power loss as possible.

What We Do

Baja: The drivetrain of the vehicle is the culmination of all of the power transmission components between the engine and the ground. To be useful for vehicle propulsion, the engine crankshaft output must be converted to rotation of higher torque and a lower speed. Since our competition will soon mandate 4WD/AWD drivetrains, our newest design also features a driveshaft and a front differential in addition to the rear gearing.

Formula: The powertrain is usually bought off the market and implemented in the car. We ensure the powertrain being bought is powerful enough as well as efficient to be a perfect choice. Both the powertrain and drivetrain are validated by computer simulation as well as hands-on testing. Some of the tests that are conducted to ensure the powertrain and drivetrain run correctly include a dynamometer test on the motor, computer-based simulations, and a Finite Element Analysis (FEA).