Originally Published 12 July 2004

University of Warwick Engineering Students won several prestigious prizes at the international Formula Student Challenge competition, held at the Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome in Leicester last weekend.

After designing and building a 600 cc racing car, the team won the Institution of Electrical Engineers prize for the Best Website, and was runner up for the Best Design and Implementation of Instrumentation. They also came 3rd in the Honda award for the Most Desirable Engineering Product.

The team of final year students designed the car as part of the Institution of Mechanical Engineering Formula Student Challenge, and raced against 64 other cars from over 80 teams from across the world.

The competition is designed to develop students’ skills by providing incentive from a real environment and competitive atmosphere. The students are required to get involved in the engineering and business side of building and developing a racing car, as well as the final task of driving.

Ed Bower, Warwick Formula Student co-ordinator, said of the competition: “Restrictions are placed on the car frame and engine so the students’ knowledge, creativity and imagination are tested.”

Last weekend’s success is especially gratifying considering one of the greatest challenges facing any team - the potential £20,000 project cost. This year students found surprise donations from MJ Gleeson construction site workers, who are currently building Heronbank, a new residence, on campus. Gleeson raised £350 for the Engineers by supplying safety gloves to contractors in return for a donation.

Dr Tim Goodhead, Warwick Manufacturing Group, said: “The students all gained invaluable experience of competition at an international level and have put Warwick on the map as a serious contender. The has been only our third year in the competition and we plan to be back next year with improved reliability to gather up prizes in both the static and dynamic events.”

Each member of the team will graduate on Wednesday.

Visit Warwick Formula Student's award winning website for further information:formulastudent.warwick.ac.uk