Formula Student Africa launches at UCT

The Formula Student Africa (FSA) team at the University of Cape Town (UCT) unveiled their ambitious project on 30 July in the Menzies building on UCT’s upper campus. FSA extends the global Formula Student initiative, challenging university students to  design and build electric formula-style race cars. FSA UCT, in particular, emphasises innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and sustainability among African students.

FSA UCT’s mission is to “design, build, and race the best-performing E-Formula student car from scratch”. Their vision aligns with this mission, aiming to “promote technical prowess, project management, teamwork, and entrepreneurship skills, contributing to the global drive for eco-friendly automotive solutions”.

Pioneering engineering excellence

The Department of Electrical Engineering at UCT plays a pivotal role in supporting the FSA UCT project. It provides the resources necessary for students to explore innovative solutions and refine their engineering designs.

Technical support from experienced faculty and staff, under the supervision of Associate Professor David Oyedokun, is crucial to the project’s success. The head of the Department of Electrical Engineering, Professor Azeem Khan, delivered a formal welcome at the launch event. He highlighted the ambitious nature of the student-led project and emphasised its multidisciplinary approach. “We look forward to this project being a resounding success, and as a flagship project of not only the department but of the faculty [of Engineering & the Built Environment] and the university also,” he said.

The FSA UCT project aligns with UCT’s Vision 2030, which focuses on nurturing a diverse and creative student body, offering transformative and sustainable education. By encouraging research that addresses complex contemporary issues, FSA UCT exemplifies UCT’s commitment to fostering innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.

FSA UCT provides a unique platform for UCT students to develop their technical skills while cultivating essential competencies in project management, teamwork, and effective communication. This initiative bridges the gap between theoretical education and real-world engineering challenges, offering invaluable hands-on experience.

During the launch event, the FSA UCT team presented their current progress on designing UCT’s first electric formula student car and shared their future plans. Aadil Eyasim, a master’s student in electrical engineering and the team principal of UCT’s Formula Student Africa team, introduced the project and outlined its objectives. As the team principal, Aadil leads the team and oversees all operations.

Project timeline and future participation

Supported by South African higher education partners, the University of Warwick, Warwick Racing in the United Kingdom, E-Movement, and Paramount Global as its official launch media partner, Formula Student Africa aims to become the leading advocate for electric mobility on the continent. It was launched at the Cape Town E-Prix in February 2023. For students to enter the competition, they need to build a new car each year.

Aadil said, “This is a student-centric project. Everything is run and all the final decisions must be made by students.” A team of 47 members across UCT is contributing to this endeavor. FSA UCT has a presence on the UCT website, and students are able to apply for membership to the team via the webpage.

“Everything is run and all the final decisions must be made by students.”

Representing the mechanical team, Sadman Ahmed focused on the functionality of the car, detailing the design and engineering efforts that ensure the vehicle’s performance and safety. As a representative of the electrical team, Nyakallo Peete discussed the electrical systems integrated into the car; while Sohail Singh speaking for the business team, highlighted the importance of securing sponsorships and partnerships. He acknowledged the support from RS Components (SA), a leading provider of industrial and electronic solution; and Shortlist Professionals, who assisted in identifying sponsors and promoting the team.

The FSA UCT team aims to complete the project within a two-year timeline and plans to enter the global competition in 2026. Alex McLeod, the founder of Formula Student Africa, joined the event virtually to thank those present for their support. Associate Professor Oyedokun also spoke, reinforcing the importance of the project and the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.

In his closing remarks, Eyasim said, “UCT offers more than just a degree. You do get a lot of opportunities within UCT.” He pointed out that UCT provides opportunities, such as FSA UCT, for students to engage in transformative projects that prepare them for real-world challenges.