The body and aerodynamics division is in charge of developing the car’s body parts and aerodynamic components to improve its performance on the track. This division directly impacts the speed, handling, and efficiency of the car. It is also responsible for ensuring that the car’s aesthetics are neat and appealing to others.
Maximising Efficiency, Minimising Drag
This year, the primary objectives revolve around enhancing the efficiency of airflow management within automotive vehicles, with a specific focus on minimising aerodynamic drag. Additionally, the goals encompass the innovation and creation of advanced aerodynamic devices tailored to augmenting overall vehicle performance.
Furthermore, the agenda includes the adoption of cutting-edge manufacturing methodologies to fabricate bodywork and aerodynamic components, creating a superior product than last year.
The division of tasks is based on projects. The division head is responsible for ensuring manufacturing work runs smoothly and efficiently. The division head also ensures that the work of staff and senior staff is completed in accordance with the daily planning that has been determined.
In addition, staff help to manufacture cars by thinking about how to make bodywork and then implement it in engineering practice and compliance with the rules.
The Struggles
The current challenge is that because some of the manufacturing methods are different from last year, we are doing a lot of trial and error. This is time-consuming and costly. In addition, there is also the challenge of balancing academics on campus and UIRT working hours so we have to learn to divide our time well.
Technical Queens
“As a woman in a male-dominated field, I’ve prepared for discrimination but haven’t encountered it. I perform tasks like welding and fiber lamination, uncommon for women, but embrace them as part of the job. I appreciate learning new hard skills with the support of my team, fostering mutual respect and assistance.” -Shafa Calista Ramdhani, Staff of Body and Aerodynamics
“As one of only two girls on the technical team, I see it as an opportunity, not a limitation. With supportive and respectful male colleagues, challenges fuel my passion for cars and pushing boundaries. To all girls dreaming of engineering, especially motorsport, don’t be afraid! This field needs more passionate women pushing their limits!” -Naila Darin Anindya Staff of Body and Aerodynamics
“As a senior staff in charge of body and aerodynamics in this team, I am responsible for designing our aerodynamics, conducting car simulations, and supervising the manufacturing process of the new bodywork and aerodynamic package. This package includes the nose cone, sidepod, front wing, rear wing, and the diffuser of the car, all of which are made using composite materials. Additionally, we test our car on the track to validate our simulations against real-life behaviour. In my view, a car’s essence lies in its body shape and aerodynamics, which set it apart from other models. I’m fortunate to work in a division dedicated to crafting these crucial elements, meticulously choosing materials and methods for production.” -Fairuz Fawwaz, Senior Staff
This role perfectly complements my mechanical engineering background, allowing me to apply my expertise in fluid dynamics, visualisation modelling, and engineering materials. What truly excites me about our work is the daily challenge of tackling various car body parts, each with its unique shapes and manufacturing processes. This ongoing excitement fuels my passion to contribute to the creation of sleek and efficient car designs for the future.” -Sultan Rafi Maulana, Staff of Body and Aerodynamics
