The course deals with road vehicles, such as cars, trucks and buses. First a general description of road vehicles and relevant definitions is given. The historical development is presented. The connection between vehicle properties and the requirements from different users and applications is explained. The course also contains an overview of vehicle safety and environmental issues. The application of fundamental principles, concepts and equations to grip, kinematics and vehicle dynamics through the systems of tyres, suspension, chassis and bodywork; aerodynamics and ergonomics; conventional, electrical and hybrid powertrains, transmissions, drivetrains and braking systems is taught and practically investigated. Autonomous drive and use of augmented reality is presented and demonstrated.
The course contains lectures, exercises, laboratory exercises and projects. Company visits, lectures from industry experts and interaction with the formula student project are all part of the course.