What is Formula SAE (FSAE) and Why It’s a Game-Changer for Students
Introduction
Formula SAE (FSAE) isn’t just a car race, it’s a global engineering design competition that brings together students from diverse disciplines to solve real-world challenges. At Husky Formula Racing (HFR), we’re proud to represent SCSU in this prestigious event, giving students hands-on experience that employers love.
What is Formula SAE?
Formula SAE, organized by SAE International, challenges university teams to design, build, and compete with a Formula-style race car. Unlike traditional racing, the focus isn’t on speed alone, it’s about engineering excellence, cost-effectiveness, and marketability.
Teams are evaluated in two major areas:
- Static Events: Design presentation, cost analysis, and business plan
- Dynamic Events: Acceleration, skid pad, autocross, endurance, and fuel economy
This means students don’t just build a car, they create a complete product and business strategy, simulating what happens in real automotive companies.
The Road to Formula SAE: From Concept to Competition
Participating in Formula SAE (FSAE) is a year-long journey that mirrors the real-world product development cycle. Here’s what the process looks like:
1. Concept & Planning
Teams start by defining their goals for the season, what kind of car they want to build, what performance targets they aim for, and how to manage resources. This phase includes:
- Setting design priorities (lightweight, agile, cost-effective)
- Budget planning and sponsorship outreach
- Assigning roles across engineering, marketing, and business teams
2. Design & Simulation
Before any metal is cut, students use CAD software and simulation tools to design the car virtually. This includes:
- Chassis and suspension geometry
- Powertrain and drivetrain layout
- Aerodynamics and weight distribution
- Electrical systems and data acquisition
3. Manufacturing & Assembly
Once designs are finalized, the team fabricates parts and assembles the car. This stage teaches:
- Welding and machining
- Quality control and safety checks
- Integration of mechanical and electrical systems
4. Testing & Validation
Before competition, the car undergoes rigorous testing:
- Static tests for safety and compliance
- Dynamic tests for handling, acceleration, and endurance
- Data collection for performance optimization
The Competition: What Happens at FSAE Events
The Formula SAE competition is typically a multi-day event where teams from around the world gather to showcase their cars. It includes:
Static Events
- Design Presentation: Judges evaluate the engineering decisions behind the car.
- Cost Report: Teams present a detailed breakdown of manufacturing costs.
- Business Presentation: Students pitch the car as a marketable product to a panel of “investors.”
Dynamic Events
- Acceleration: How fast the car can go from 0 to 75 meters.
- Skid Pad: Tests cornering ability on a figure-eight track.
- Autocross: Measures handling and agility on a tight course.
- Endurance: A 22-km race that tests reliability and fuel efficiency.
Success in FSAE isn’t just about speed, it’s about engineering excellence, teamwork, and business strategy.
What Does FSAE Entail for Different Majors?
FSAE is multidisciplinary, offering roles for students across various fields:
- Mechanical Engineering: Chassis design, suspension, drivetrain, and aerodynamics
- Electrical Engineering: Wiring, sensors, data acquisition, and battery systems
- Computer Science: Simulation, telemetry, and software integration
- Business & Marketing: Sponsorship acquisition, social media campaigns, branding, and event promotion
- Finance & Accounting: Budgeting, cost reports, and resource allocation
- Graphic Design & Media: Logo design, video editing, and promotional content
No matter your major, there’s a place for you on the team.
How Does FSAE Boost Your Resume?
Employers value real-world experience, and FSAE delivers exactly that:
- Project Management: Work on a complex project from concept to completion
- Team Collaboration: Coordinate with students from multiple disciplines
- Technical Skills: Apply classroom theory to practical engineering challenges
- Business Acumen: Develop marketing strategies and pitch to sponsors
- Portfolio Building: Showcase measurable results—designs, campaigns, budgets, and more
Many alumni credit FSAE for landing internships and full-time roles at companies like Tesla, Ford, GM, and aerospace firms.
Join Husky Formula Racing at SCSU
We’re building a competitive Formula-style car for the upcoming FSAE competition, and we need passionate students from all majors. Whether you want to design, market, manage, or innovate, this is your chance to accelerate your future.
Learn more at HFRscsu.com or contact us today!
HFRscsu@gmail.com