UK engineers launch build-it-yourself electric race car

In development since 2008, and launched at a time when interest in low carbon racing is growing significantly, the iRacer, which can be purchased for around £14k, enables the construction of a vehicle that can operate in a hybrid, pure electric or pure internal combustion engine modes. The purchase price does not include the powertrain (ie electric motors, battery unit or an engine).

Aimed at members of the public as well as students and school-kids, the kit has been inspired by the popular Formula Student competition, which has become a valuable testing ground for the next generation of engineers.

The product is the result of a wider collaboration between the University and Westfield, and though the iRacer is being sold as a product it’s viewed by the two partners as a live platform for continuous research, development and innovation in a number of areas, including weight and emissions reduction, and new types of battery technology.