TUfast Racing Team: Winning Races with Supercomputing

Computational fluid dynamics reveal turbulence and drag on front and rear wings, diffusers, and air intakes—factors that could cost critical lap time. The geometries can then be precisely optimized for better aerodynamics before the molds for carbon fiber parts are manufactured — crucial for maximizing downforce in fast corners. Additionally, heat flows between the motors, inverters, and the high-voltage battery can be modeled to optimally position cooling inlets and efficiently use the extremely compact installation space. This ensures that the 600-volt battery remains within its optimal temperature range even at maximum power: “You really have to know how to handle large data volumes and parallel computing, and understand what flow simulation software does,” says LRZ specialist Frank. “Without understanding the basics, you’ll just generate colorful nonsense and won’t be able to minimize or quantify numerical errors in simulations.”

From September to January, TUfast Racing calculates and designs; from then until April, they manufacture the components and conduct the first test drives and optimizations. In May, TUfast presents its new machine, which takes off in June. “Formula Student isn’t just about speed,” team manager Nasch emphasizes. “Winning a race isn’t necessary to win overall. Teams are also judged on how they develop technology, delegate tasks and responsibility, and manage costs.” Still, the dozens of trophies lining the shelves at TUfast fuel ambition: the team plans to compete in four races in 2026, aiming for top places and hoping to win the German competition at the Hockenheimring in mid-August: “It’s the toughest one, with strong competitors from Aachen, Stuttgart, Zurich,” says Nasch, laughing.

In the last season, the 161‑kilogram xb025 accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in three seconds and reached a top speed of around 120 km/h. But the student's race cars are evaluated not just on speed; they must excel in acceleration events, maneuver safely through corners, endure a 22‑kilometer endurance run, handle driver changes and recharging — all of which test the self-developed technology. If the vehicle breaks down, only points for engineering, efficiency, concept and design, cost management, or business plan remain: “Formula Student is incredibly diverse — engines, materials, electronics, batteries, plus management and teamwork — and it’s fun. Everyone can find their place,” says Mashkov, the racing veteran. Many students prepare for careers in mobility or motorsport through TUfast. The alumni and sponsor network helps both during races and later when entering the industry. But is motorsport still sustainable and relevant? “Outside racetracks, the car doesn’t provide much value,” Nasch admits. “But lightweight carbon construction is used in the auto industry and aerospace for sustainability. Electronics, battery management, charging — these are practical issues becoming more important everywhere. Last year I joined just for fun, and decided that I want to do it properly once — with everything that goes with it.” (Autorin: vs | LRZ)