Waterloo Hybrid is one of several student automotive design teams based in Engineering 5, where they test designs for new vehicle technology with the potential to someday change the way we drive.
A mass of wires, hoses clamps and two motors — one electric, one gas — Waterloo Hybrid’s competition vehicle looks like a buggy bound for a distant planet.
But its purpose lies much closer to home: Push a few technological boundaries and challenge the students who put it together.
“It’s about developing skills,’’ says Imran Virani, a third-year mechanical engineering student at the University of Waterloo. “We don’t necessarily know how to design a car before we get here, but it’s about developing new skills and using those skills to enhance creativity and motivation.”
Waterloo Hybrid is the newest of ten student teams with work bays that form part of the Student Design Centre in Engineering 5. The centre host more than 20 student design teams, which work on projects spanning all engineering disciplines.
“It really is about experiential learning,” says Peter Teertstra, director of the student design centre. “It’s a great way to learn, versus just sitting in a classroom.’’
Rain, rain, go away
The teamed started less than two years ago and began modifying a chassis donated by one of the seasoned veterans on the block, the Formula SAE team. Last May, Waterloo Hybrid headed to a track in New Hampshire for its first event — the International Formula Hybrid Competition hosted by Dartmouth College.
Judges enthused over the team’s electrical work, the very thing that kept vehicle out of a key track test: The components wouldn’t have mixed well with New Hampshire’s rain. The team aims to overcome that challenge before next year’s event.
Students bring different skills to the automotive teams. Some are better at mechanics, some at computers and electrical systems, some at design and logistics.
Each team draws up a business plan and makes a pitch to sponsors, says Alex Mommersteeg, a third-year mechanical engineering student and team lead for Waterloo Hybrid.
Some teams work under a brand that has been around for years. Waterloo’s Midnight Sun solar car has a pedigree going back to 1988.
As the new team on the block in Engineering 5, Waterloo Hybrid gets some friendly support from its more-experienced neighbours. Mommersteeg sees a strong future for the team’s odd-looking vehicle.
“Once they see it full running, it may become a rival.”
