I had the wonderful opportunity to be the captain of the much acclaimed 'Car#8-BOSCH Team Stratos, BIT', the team representing the institution at the BAJA SAEINDIA 2010 Competition, held at NATRAX, near Indore, M.P. This was the first time such an attempt was made in our college and were the only ones from Bangalore.
Apart from being the skipper, I had a major role in the design phase of the all-terrain vehicle (ATV), using CATIA V5 extensively in part design, assembly, anthropometric analysis and use of in-built analysis package. I was involved in marketing as well, with the team getting major sponsorship backing from Bosch Ltd., among many other prominent companies. I’ve created the Team sponsorship brochures. Also have designed and implemented all the electrical systems in the car.
My team consisted of 20 brilliant 4th, 3rd and 2nd year mechanical students. Our car was used to inaugurate the event as our team had won laurels for having the Best Design Report.
We got our first podium finish at the BIAE ATV University Challenge when we finished at 2nd place in a 21Km endurance race.
A FEW TIPS..
You are most likely to have one shot at BAJA. So, keep reliability of all aspects largely within spec.
Test, test and test more. Parts break when you least expect. This is that sort of terrain. I suggest atleast a month’s testing.
Never EVER underestimate your opponents.
Rule: OEM parts are ALWAYS more reliable than custom made ones.
Respect the track. Its professionally crafted to reduce your car to shreds. This is where your worst case scenario is your most likely scenario.
MY BEST WISHES TO ALL FUTURE BAJA
ASPIRANTS!!
-Manish O.
THANK YOU!
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