Kettering University's Formula Lightning Car

Formula Lighting

The Formula Lightning spec series for electric vehicles was originally started in 1995 by SERA.  Since then, the series has been handed over to EVTC (Electric Vehicles Technical Competitions).  The series consists of teams from different universities from across the country competing with spec chassis and electric drivetrains.  The races are sanctioned by SCCA Pro Racing, which unfortunately means that the students can not drive the cars during the races (without the proper SCCA license). 

Generally, between four to six races are held every year, in locations such as Indianapolis Raceway Park, Firebird Raceway (Phoenix), Gingerman Raceway (Michigan), and Burke Lakefront Airport (Cleveland).  Points are counted from each race and go towards an annual points championship.  The races themselves last from 15 to 30 minutes, with some races requiring pit stops during the race.  Fields range from eight to twelve cars at any given race, and all are on the track at the same time to battle it out head-to-head.

 
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In 1995, the Formula Lightning team was established through an initial grant from the General Motors branch of the United Auto Workers. The Lightning chassis was purchased from the Solar Electric Race Association (SERA), and design work progressed in the drive and battery systems. A system that allows for a quick exchange of the entire vehicle set of batteries was engineered and crafted. During normal pit stops the system allows 1200 lbs. of batteries to be removed and replaced in under thirty seconds! Coupled with excellence and innovation, the Kettering Formula Lightning team has been a serious competitor. In the presence of teams with two years prior experience, the rookie Kettering team placed fourth in its second showing. Hard work and dedication does pay off! 

In the interest of the team and sponsors, the Kettering Formula Lightning team is making regional and national appearances. During the past year the vehicle has attended many engineering and automotive related events. Around the Detroit area the vehicle has been i n the North American International Auto Show, the Environmental Vehicle Conference (CNN covered), and the Electric Vehicle Exhibition (Frankenmuth, MI). Nationally the vehicle has been seen on the ESPN and Prime Sports television networks and appeared at the Indianapolis 500. In the community, the vehicle is part of an educational service to promote the engineering profession in local Michigan high school.