Vehicle Dynamics
- Colegio Racing Engineering
- Aug 27
- 2 min read
Division Overview
The Vehicle Dynamics division focuses on the suspension, steering and brake system of a Formula SAE EV vehicle. Its main responsibility is the design, analysis and manufacture of the control arms, steering column, brake system and wheel assembly. The division ensures that the vehicle’s tires always stay having a consistent grip with the track. They also ensure that the vehicle’s handling, the set up for different scenarios and that the driver knows what to expect when driving the vehicle.
Components
Control arms
Connects the frame to the wheel assembly.
Steering System
Receives the driver input to make the vehicle turn.
Brake System
Ensures driver safety
Must be able to lock all four tires
Wheel Assembly
Consists of the upright, hubs, wheel and tires.
Main function is to connect the tires to the control arms to ensure that the vehicle performs as expected.
Rockers, Springs and Dampers
Receives all the vehicle loads and vibrations to ensure that the ride is smooth.
Requirements
INGE 4019: Mechanics of Materials
INME 4005: Mechanism Design
Knowledge of SolidWorks and ANSYS (FEA)
Knowledge of MATLAB (Programming)
Preferences: Experience working with braking, handling, and suspension systems.
Division Knowledge Guide
Vehicle Dynamics engineers must be able to identify understeer vs. oversteer. Understeer occurs when the front tires lose grip first, causing the car to push wide; oversteer occurs when the rear tires lose grip, making the car rotate excessively. Corrections can be made by adjusting spring stiffness, anti-roll bars, or aerodynamic balance. Tire wear is a key diagnostic tool: if wear is uneven across the tread, it may indicate improper camber, toe settings, or suspension geometry that needs correction.
If the car bounces uncontrollably on the corner exit, it suggests that damping is inadequate; adjustments to shock absorber settings (rebound or compression) are needed to control oscillations. Understanding tire slip angle is critical: lateral force increases with slip angle up to a point, after which grip falls off. VD also emphasizes the importance of minimizing unsprung mass (wheels, brakes, control arms) to improve tire contact with the road.
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