Formula Student
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TAU-17 is the result of thousands of hours of work over the past 10 months and features many exciting new designs and innovations. The team is currently gearing up for the 2017 Formula Student UK competition and hold high hopes for the performance of their new car. We caught up with team project manager Tom Morrice with less weeks to go to talk about their car, new developments for this year.
Tell us about the car, what's new for 2017?
With the new rule changes for 2017, we've implemented a new 3 cylinder Triumph Daytona engine and integrated it into the car for tight package at the rear end of the car. We've also managed to integrate a new powertrain and suspension, plus we've been using a lot of 3D printing to cut down on manufacturing time. Last year we used 3D printing for small parts, but this year we've been using it more extensively and for critical parts - for example on the wetsump where we measured a gasket and used a combination of 3D printed prototypes and modelling software to design and produce an aluminium part.
On the driver side, TAU-17 has an LED shift and acceleration readout for the driver, plus an iPod touch mounted on the steering wheel that connects to all the sensors on the car via Bluetooth for up to date diagnostics. It's also helpful as any of the team can download the app and get access to the same information to help improve the car.
2017 is the tenth year of competing in Formula Student, how has the team improved in that time?
We are proud of our heritage and we've come on leaps and bounds - I would definitely say we are now more competitive. In recent years the team have been very strong in the static events and this year we are really looking to improve in the dynamics, in particular the Skidpan, Sprint and Endurance events. Last year we had some engine problems with overheating on the Endurance, but we think we've overcome the issues we had then and it will be great to see how the new car goes!
What's still left to do on the car?
Well, we were up late on the car last night making the last of the changes, but all that's really left to do is to make sure all the car sensors are working properly and to get the engine tuned. With the new rules we know that several other teams like LU Motorsport will be using the same engine as us, so it's up to us to make sure that ours is installed and tuned for the competition. I know we've got to compete against everyone, but it will be great to see how our car performs against other teams using the same engine!
Any last words before Silverstone?
We're really looking forward to it and hope to see everyone there!
The project is solely funded by sponsorship raised by the team, which is crucial to remain present and competitive within the competition. TAU Racing continues to build upon the successes of previous years with the aim of maximising points awarded at the competition each year. For more details on TAU Racing and their new car, visit the team's website and social channels.