Students at the University of Cape Town (UCT) are developing their own Formula One-type racing car.

The initiative is part of the annual Formula Student Africa (FSA) challenge to build an electric formula-style race car.

The university reports that FSA UCT is an extension of the globally recognised Formula Student initiative and promotes ‘technical prowess and cultivates skills in project management, teamwork, and effective communication’.

The 47 participating students will be supported by the Department of Electrical Engineering, which will provide access to its state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and technical expertise. They will also be supervised by David Oyedokun, an associate professor in the department, who with other faculty and staff will provide feedback and assist with troubleshooting.

The FSA UCT team aims to have its vehicle ready to compete in the global competition in 2026.

Aadil Eyasim, a master’s student in electrical engineering and the team principal overseeing the project, emphasises that the initiative is student-centred. ‘Everything is run and all the final decisions must be made by students.’

13 August 2024
Image: University of Cape Town