A race car designed and built by students at Ningbo University. [Photo/Tide News]

Students at Ningbo University are designing, building, and racing their own electric formula-style car, using the project to gain hands-on engineering experience while competing in one of China's most demanding university motorsport events.

The student-run Changhua Racing Team, based in the university's School of Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics, designs and manufactures its race car largely from the ground up. Founded in 2014, the team brings together students from multiple departments, including engineering, business, and information science.

Their target competition is Formula Student Electric China (FSEC), organized by the China Society of Automotive Engineers. The contest challenges university teams to independently design, build, and test an electric formula-style car, then put it through a series of engineering evaluations and track events.

"Except for standardized parts and the motor, almost all key components are produced by our team," said Zhang Xuning, a sophomore majoring in vehicle engineering. "Design is the most difficult stage because every system must meet strict regulations while still working together without interference."

Teams must pass thorough technical inspections and submit cost analyses, business plans, and engineering designs before undergoing dynamic tests that evaluate acceleration, handling, efficiency, and endurance.

For many participants, the experience provides hands-on training that extends far beyond the classroom.

"FSEC mirrors real industry standards," said Li Bin, a junior responsible for chassis and ergonomics design. "Through the team, we learn not only how to build a car but also how to organize and manage complex engineering projects.”

The team's current electric race car has reached speeds of nearly 100 kilometers per hour during testing. After winning a national third prize last year, members are now developing a new version equipped with dual motors as they aim for stronger results in future competitions.