Lean, Mean, and Green
Green means more than "go" for the Washington University Formula Racing Team. The team's current project involves using ethanol to lower engine emissions.
Formula Racing Team President Eric Jensen is leading the team's one-year building effort. He has been on the team since his freshman year.
"I've always felt we were on the verge of something awesome," said Jensen. "I really wanted to make sure we found one year to complete a car and do something to embody the future of engineering."
The idea for the car to run on ethanol creates more learning opportunities for students.
"We've been in contact with professors to figure out how we can use it (ethanol) and how we can win with it," said Jensen. "Using E85 has really gotten the faculty interested in what we're doing."
Next summer, the team will take the car to a national competition. Students will present the car to judges in two portions, static and dynamic presentations. They will share a comprehensive cost analysis including every nut and bolt used to make the car and a panel of experts will conduct a technical inspection.
Jensen hopes Washington University's use of ethanol will give the team an extra edge at the competition.
To overcome timing challenges that correspond with using a new theory, team members plan to spend a significant amount of winter and spring breaks on campus. The car should be completely designed by the winter holidays.
Follow the team's progress online.
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