Aug 02, 2026

KFUPM Team Excels in Formula Student UK

A multidisciplinary team of students from KFUPM made a strong international debut at Formula Student UK 2026 – Concept Class, securing 7th place in the Business Presentation category and 26th overall among more than 100 participating universities. Held at Silverstone Circuit on July 15, 2026 and organized by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), the competition challenges students to develop a Formula-style race car through an integrated engineering and commercial process.

Representing KFUPM for the first time, the team designed a complete race-car concept covering vehicle architecture, chassis, suspension, electrical systems, battery management, safety, and systems integration. Students also developed a comprehensive manufacturing strategy, cost model, and investor-style business plan, demonstrating the commercial viability of the project alongside its engineering excellence.

The achievement is particularly notable given the team’s circumstances. Formed only in April 2026, the 14-member team completed in just a few weeks what many universities spend an entire academic year preparing. Through close collaboration, systems engineering, and disciplined project management, the students successfully delivered all technical and commercial submissions while balancing their academic commitments.

Beyond the competition results, the project lays the foundation for a sustainable Formula Student program at KFUPM. The team now plans to transform their concept into a fully manufactured race car and compete in the dynamic events next season, further strengthening the University’s commitment to experiential learning, multidisciplinary collaboration, and innovation on the global stage.