Design of electric racing vehicles: An experience of interdisciplinary project-based education in engineering

Abstract

This paper describes a project based learning program carried out in the E.T.S.I.I. of the University of Malaga, Spain, whose main objective is the organization of a team for the development of experimental electric racing vehicles and their evaluation in competitive races. It is shown the work done during the first two years of the project, highlighting the most important aspects of the experience: the training focused on senior students (capstone courses), the training focused on freshmen (cornerstone courses) and the university-industry collaboration for the manufacture of the prototypes and equipment designed.

Simulation Tool for Assessing Driving Strategies for Electric Racing Vehicles

“…Around this project, different lines of work have emerged [16][17][18], among which there is the development of a software tool-computer model-capable of simulating the operation of LEV prototypes (see Figure 1) in order to predict and improve their performance in the different competitions. According to the state of the art in reference to these types of competitions and electric racing vehicles, in terms of the development of software models and simulations of electric vehicles, a great variety of research papers can be found.…”

Numerical and Experimental Investigation of the Flow over a Car Prototype for the Shell Eco Marathon

“…The realisation of highly efficient electric vehicles with very low fuel consumption can contribute to the reduction of environmental impact. Unfortunately, the development of this technology is slower than it could be (Ramos et al 2014), but an attempt to raise awareness about high efficient electric cars is the organization of car competitions for students, in which the goal is to increase the energy efficiency of the vehicles instead of being the fastest, so the winning vehicle is the most energy efficient one.…”

Interdisciplinary project-based learning: technology for improving student cognition

“…It develops creativity and enables a balance in student independent learning. This is essential both for problem solution and effective learning and teaching (Mc Goldrick et al 2013;Rahal 2008;Ramos, Lozano, and Caldero É n 2014;Richter and Paretti 2009;Tan et al 2006). An intensive development of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) education has been recently articulated (Donohue, Hunter, and Richards 2012;Schaffer et al 2012;Tseng et al 2013).…”