On November 11th, Taiwan Tech's Formula Racing Team held an event to showcase their accomplishments and unveil their new electric vehicle, the “Leopard 01”. The event included the presentation of the vehicle's technical report, plans for the remainder of the year and next year's racing schedule, and dynamic demonstrations. Taiwan Tech's Formula Racing Team will be participating in the FSAE Australasia event, scheduled to take place in Melbourne, Australia, expected to occur in mid-December of the current year (2023). As the only Taiwanese team attending the Australian event this year, their participation not only represents Taiwan Tech but also secures Taiwan's place in international competition.
The Leopard 01 performed an eight-figure slalom during a dynamic performance.
This year, the team upgraded the original racing car by incorporating aerodynamic kits to enhance the performance of the powertrain and electrical configurations. Paired with a brand-new paint job, the car has been named “Leopard 01”, symbolizing the speed and aesthetics of a prototype leopard, showcasing the dominance of the second-generation electric vehicle. The “Leopard 01”, in terms of electrical and mechanical tests, simulates an acceleration from 0 to 100 meters in just 5 seconds, with horsepower increased to 107. The team also replaced the motor with a more advanced and higher-speed unit, combined with a lightweight body structure and materials. Furthermore, they utilized eco-friendly materials to reduce environmental impact, aligning with the global trend of new energy sources in response to carbon reduction initiatives.
The Unveiling Ceremony of Leopard 01.
From the body design, research, and development to the completion of the racing car, approximately half of the resources were supported by various industries and brands within Taiwan. Among the supporters were companies such as China Motor Corporation, Chroma ATE Inc., LIQUI MOLY (represented by Taiwan Yifu Industrial), T-Global Technology, CADMEN Taiwan Auto Design Co., and others. Their support significantly facilitated the development process."
Captain Yi-Hung Liao leads the team in reflecting on the journey.
Yi-Hung Liao, the captain of Taiwan Tech's Formula Racing Team and a senior student majoring in Mechanical Engineering, mentioned, “As the team was established just two years ago, in the 2023 season, in order to meet the requirements for the year-end Australian competition, we dedicated all our efforts to car manufacturing, participating in domestic exhibitions, events, and international competitions. Apart from the support received from the university, we are also grateful for the help from various industries and sponsoring companies”. Furthermore, alongside the team's technical development, there has been an active integration of campus resources. The team not only comprises members from mechanical and electrical engineering backgrounds but also recruited members from the School of Management and the School of Design this year. Additionally, international students from Paraguay and Germany have joined, bringing in diverse perspectives, aiding the team in advancing towards international competitions."
Taiwan Tech's Formula Racing Team was invited to exhibit at the LIQUI MOLY Track Day on September 24th.
Following their participation in the third edition of the Taiwan Cup Formula Student Racing in July, this year, Taiwan Tech's Formula Racing Team continued by taking part in the LIQUI MOLY Track Day exhibition at the Penbay International Circuit in September. Since their involvement in the Taiwan Student Cup event, the team has garnered significant attention, receiving visits from companies such as Delta Electronics and Zotye Auto. Moreover, at the end of October, they were invited to visit the Super Taikyu Races sponsored by Toyota Gazoo Racing, which effectively elevated their visibility and exposure.
Taiwan Tech's Formula Racing Team participated in the FST Taiwan Cup Formula Student Racing on July 18th.
Established in 2021, Taiwan Tech's Formula Racing Team has participated in two FST Taiwan Cup Formula Student Racing events to date, achieving commendable results in both instances. The team's founding principle revolves around “Steadfast in self, Pursuit of excellence”. Currently comprising 20 members, the team covers various divisions such as powertrain, aerodynamics, chassis, electrical systems, and bodywork. Each member undertakes specific responsibilities, continually striving to challenge boundaries, innovate, and build upon existing foundations.