Rigorous testing and data analysis play a vital role in the success of our numerous FSAE campaigns. Over the years, the team has depended upon an extensive testing schedule so that we can effectively capitalise on the limited time we have before competitions. Each test contributes to our confidence as a team, in both the cars and the drivers.

In 2019, we successfully implemented our first pair of carbon fibre composite monocoque chassis, replacing the tried and tested tubular steel space frame. The work presented in this report highlights this journey and is the culmination of over four years of development dating back to late 2014.

Vincent Chu’s Final Year Thesis outlines and clearly defines aspects of the Monash Motorsport brand, serving as a referential source for brand deployment.

In our pursuit to become Australia’s first team to compete with a driverless car, Michael Mattiske’s Final Year Project was essential as it established our perception and state estimation foundations.

Computational Fluid Dynamics Workflow or ‘CFD’ Workflow is an integral element of the teams testing and simulation system. It allows the Dynamics department to compare results from past to current runs using graphs, tables, images and videos. Recently we have undergone a major upgrade to this workflow, making it fully automated.

Paul Hendy’s Thesis from 2019 focuses on creating and analysing simulated aero maps for our cars, as well as the development of CFD validation tools.

Thejana Abeykoon's Final Year Thesis highlights the importance of meticulous care and attention to detail when designing and manufacturing such a critical system on an FSAE race car.

The ability to quickly and accurately tune a vehicle’s handling characteristics, throughout an endurance or during an autocross, allows drivers to more easily and predictably push the car to its full potential, ultimately maximising points at competition.

Drivers are one of the biggest variables in any Formula SAE team. Check out how Tom Behrendt made our current driver simulator to help them perform at their best.

Aero mapping is one of the methods we use to optimize our car’s performance across the lap. In addition to making aerodynamic design decisions, aero mapping also helps us tune our suspension parameters and determine optimal vehicle setup based around enhancing aero performance.

Sam Wilson’s 2019 thesis on a new 3D printed intake design and manufacture in combination with an electronic throttle body helped us maximise performance for M19-C.

Back in 2018, during the foundational stages of M19-D’s development, James Wyatt and our Autonomous Systems team sought to build and implement a computing platform - an integral component of our first ever Driverless Vehicle.

In 2020, part designer Cooper Morrison was tasked with the design of the wheel centres. Here is a brief snapshot of his design experience.

Adam Mapson’s thesis details Monash Motorsport’s 2011 suspension package - designed with a strong focus on manufacturability and efficiency.

Luke’s 2009 thesis on aerodynamic package design, development and validation has helped the team take our wings to the next level.

Steven Webb’s Final Year Thesis on lap time and competition points simulation has been a cornerstone of MMS performance for many years. Now it is time to share it.

Equipped with tools for turning, thread cutting, boring and parting parts made of aluminium, mild steel and high tensile steel, our partnership with Sandvik Coromant has given part designers the confidence to pursue increasingly ambitious concepts that enhance the performance of our vehicles.

Monash Motorsport has decided it will cease to design and manufacture a car for the IC class of competitions indefinitely.

Despite all that has transpired in the first half of 2020, we would like to take a retrospective look at all that the team got up to in the first few months of the year. In this post, our Leaders and Managers go into detail about the key developments in each section of the team during summer design period.

With all the challenges that we’ve faced in 2020 so far, FSAE Australasia 2019 truly feels like a lifetime ago. Our 2020 Business Manager Ben reflects on our 2019 competition experience