Overview & Specifications
The NUS Formula SAE R26e is a high-performance, fully electric formula-style race car built to compete internationally. Weighing in at just 198 kg, the car features a lightweight Carbon Fiber Monocoque chassis and an advanced aerodynamics package capable of producing over 1,330 N of downforce at 80 km/h.
It is powered by a custom 6.88 kWh battery pack delivering up to 137 kW of peak power to an Emrax 228 Liquid-Cooled motor, via a Borgwarner Cascadia Motion CM200DX motor controller. This rear-wheel-drive setup outputs a staggering 220 Nm of peak torque, propelling the car with extreme acceleration and precision handling.
Core Architecture & Dashboard
Engineered a custom driver dashboard powered by an STM32F4 microcontroller, utilizing real-time operating systems (FreeRTOS) for split-second, reliable performance. I designed the user interface to include steering wheel buttons and selector knobs, allowing drivers to make instant adjustments to current limits and regenerative braking on the track. The system runs a highly optimized CAN communication network to ensure smooth, immediate display updates.
Real-Time Telemetry & Cloud Integration
Built a live telemetry system to stream vehicle data directly to the cloud. I integrated a cellular LTE module to send live data to an AWS server at 10 updates per second with less than 100ms of latency. This raw data is piped to a custom web app, giving the trackside engineering team instant, real-time insights into the car's health and performance during a race.
Data Acquisition & Vehicle Network
Designed and managed the car's central nervous system—a complex Controller Area Network (CAN bus) connecting 39 different sensors across the aerodynamics, suspension, and braking systems. To ensure the electric motor always received commands instantly, I meticulously optimized network traffic to prevent any delays or dropped messages. I also implemented 100 Hz data logging, giving the team objective, high-resolution live telemetry to coach drivers on optimal braking points and racing lines.
Electrical Harnessing & Integration
Designed and built most of the car's low voltage (LV) electrical architecture. This included manufacturing fully waterproofed, automotive-grade wiring harnesses capable of withstanding the extreme vibrations, heat, and weather conditions of competitive racing.
ECU Firmware & Performance Control
Developed custom firmware for the MoTeC M150 electronic control unit (ECU) to manage advanced vehicle dynamics, including launch control and real-time broadcasting. A major highlight was designing an Active Brake Regeneration System—a system that automatically blocks rear brake fluid pressure when the pedal is pressed, seamlessly replacing mechanical braking with electrical energy recovery. This system successfully recovered around 46% of kinetic energy, pulling peak charging currents of -98.5 Amps back into the battery pack!