Mechanical Engineer

As a Mechanical Engineer of Solar Team Twente, you are responsible for all mechanical systems that move with respect to the structural parts of the vehicle. These include the braking system, steering system, and hinges. You work closely together with all disciplines in the technical team to ensure a smooth integration of the components. 

The available space for mechanical components is strongly influenced by aerodynamic performance, and thermal constraints. All components must be robustly connected to and integrated within the internal structure, while withstanding high loads, vibrations and the harsh conditions of the desert. 

In this role, you will perform structural analysis and simulations, create CAD models and technical drawings, and support prototyping and manufacturing. You are involved in assembling all components and testing them to validate your design. From initial concept and design, through optimization and manufacturing, to final assembly and testing, you are involved in every phase of the engineering process.


The experience of Sven

With a group of students who didn’t know each other but shared the same drive and passion, I, Sven Onland, began the adventure of my lifetime. In just one year, a design on a computer screen evolved into an actual race-ready car, something that seemed almost impossible at the start.

As a mechanical engineer, it was a special moment when, after many hours of designing, the first components arrived. Real, precisely machined parts, something I had never access to during my bachelor's study Mechanical Engineering. Experiencing the entire process, from design and optimization to production, testing and ultimately racing, was the exact reason I applied.

After production, the phase began where I had been looking forward to for months: assembly. Our designed components slowly started to arrive and we could finally install them. Now the car truly came to life. Everything could move exactly as we had modelled in CAD. The first time seeing the car drive, is something I will never forget. All technical aspects, electronics, chassis, mechanics and aerodynamics, came together and worked to one super efficient car.

Time flew by. Before I knew it, we were standing in the pit box in Australia, fixing one of our wheels that wasn’t running smoothly just minutes before our session. You will encounter problems, but they make it even more rewarding when you manage to repair everything in time and watch the car race across the track or in your case, through the desert.

One year, countless memories, and many years of live experience gained. It was incredible.