The Introduction to Motorsport Engineering short course serves as an introductory exploration into the dynamic and exhilarating field of motorsport engineering. Through a blend of theoretical concepts and practical applications, students will delve into the fundamental principles that underpin the design, development, and optimization of vehicles for competitive racing. The course will encompass various aspects of motorsport engineering, including but not limited to vehicle dynamics, powertrain systems, materials science, vehicle electrical systems, data analysis and motorsport simulation.

Compared to online courses and practitioner led workshops, Cranfield’s Introduction to Motorsport Engineering uniquely introduces both engineering theory and methodologies alongside practical workshops utilising facilities within the Advanced Vehicle Engineering Centre.

It is open to students interested in the discipline without or with limited prior experience who are studying for a degree in engineering, maths, physics or electronics. It is recommended to prospective students for the MSc Advanced Motorsport Engineering and the MSc Advanced Motorsport Mechatronics.

At a glance

Course structure

Lectures and practical sessions covering the design, development, manufacture and operation of competition vehicles for competitive advantage.

What you will learn

This course will provide you with an understanding of engineering in relation to competition vehicles. Valuable to those with non-engineering backgrounds who are studying subjects such as electronics, physics and applied mathematics. If you are studying mechanical engineering, the course should help you place your understanding in the context of motorsport.

Core content

  • An overview of competition vehicle types 
  • Competition vehicle performance and dynamics 
  • Competition vehicle electrical systems and data analysis 
  • Materials and structures as applied to motorsport 
  • Power train architecture 
  • Competition vehicle design 
  • Manufacturing techniques extant in motorsport 
  • Simulation and Data Analysis

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Who should attend

Students: valuable if you have a non-engineering background and are studying subjects such as electronics, physics and applied mathematics. If you are studying mechanical engineering, it should help you place this understanding in the context of motorsport.

Ben Wiles

I attended Cranfield's Introduction to Motorsport Engineering short course in July 2019. The course delivered what the course title states. It is a really useful introductory course. As a delegate I received a comprehensive set of notes covering key aspects. There were practical sessions using Cranfield's facilities. The course team made us all really welcome and it was a good experience working with like-minded delegates. Thoroughly recommended, especially for those intending to study one of Cranfield's two motorsport MSc courses.

Ben Wiles, course delegate, July 2019,

Concessions

15% discount for incoming Cranfield Motorsport MSc students already holding MSc places, secured by paid deposits.

Accommodation options and prices

This course is non-residential. If you would like to book accommodation on campus, please contact Mitchell Hall or Cranfield Management Development Centre directly. Further information about our on campus accommodation can be found here. Alternatively you may wish to make your own arrangements at a nearby hotel.

Location and travel

Cranfield University is situated in Bedfordshire close to the border with Buckinghamshire.

The School is located almost midway between the towns of Bedford and Milton Keynes and is conveniently situated between junctions 13 and 14 of the M1.

London Luton, Stansted and Heathrow airports are 30, 90 and 90 minutes respectively by car, offering superb connections to and from just about anywhere in the world.

For further location and travel details

Location address

Cranfield University
Wharley End
Cranfield
Bedford 
MK43 0HG

How to apply

To apply for this course please use the online application form.

Apply now

Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.