By Isabel Cattermole and Fiona Muncaster
On a typical weekday at the University of Sussex, you might find students with their heads down in the library or relaxing in the Student Centre. But venture into the engineering workshop, and you’ll discover a very different kind of energy. Sussex Racing, the university’s full-electric student team, is hard at work crafting a single-seat race car powered by ambition and charged by sustainability. This July, they’ll take their creation to the world’s prestigious student motorsport event.
More Than Just a Race: A Showcase of Sussex’s Green Vision
Formula Student stands apart from conventional motorsport. Organised by the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), it convenes over 100 university teams each July at Silverstone, the home of the British Grand Prix, to push prototype cars through rigorous engineering, business and performance evaluations. While judges score each car based on race lap times, design innovation and cost analysis, Sussex Racing views the event as a platform to prove that environmental responsibility can coexist with competitive excellence.
“We’re racing on electricity, but we’re really racing the clock on climate change,” says Tayo, lead designer of the car’s impact attenuator and third-year engineering student. “Every component has to earn its keep – in speed, safety, and sustainability”.
The Eco-Engineering Revolution
Just four years ago, Sussex’s entry was a petrol-powered prototype. Today, the SR-25 electric racer embodies the university’s commitment to a carbon-neutral future. Last year’s car was their first electrified model, and it roared to life, earning 14th place in the business presentation category. Behind this achievement lies a host of eco-innovations woven into every decision. The chassis, for example, is built entirely from steel sourced within the UK, dramatically cutting transport emissions. Furthermore, Sussex Racing emphasises its relationship with local companies and connections to the faculty to boost the University of Sussex’s sustainability ethos.
Campus Culture
“Sussex Racing isn’t just about engineering a fast car; it’s about crafting a compelling narrative. Jacob from the chassis sub-team explains, “Our Instagram followers don’t just see the nuts and bolts; they connect with our sustainability journey.” That commitment, coupled with Sussex Racing, turns the pit lane into a forum for local manufacturing, carbon-offset strategies, and mental health initiatives, a live showcase of green innovation. When their electric racer finally takes the track, it won’t merely compete for speed; it will embody the belief that performance and environmental responsibility are inseparable.
Eyes on the Prize and the Planet
Looking ahead to 2025, Sussex Racing has a clear path. They aim to break into the top 30 teams overall, leveraging their engineering and eco-credentials to climb the standings. Equally ambitious is their goal to demonstrate that strict rebuild rules can harmonise with environmental ideals, an approach to student motorsport that other teams might soon follow.
Get Your Tickets
Formula Student runs from July 15-20 at Silverstone Circuit. Tickets are available through the Silverstone website. Whether you’re an engineering enthusiast, a sustainability advocate, or simply just an F1 fan, don’t miss the chance to witness the future of motorsport.
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