Argomenti trattati
In a remarkable display of engineering skill and innovation, Electric Superbike Twente has earned the title of Rookie of the Year at the international MotoStudent competition in Aragón, Spain. This achievement is particularly significant as it represents the team’s first participation in this esteemed global event, which features competitors from universities around the world.
Formed through a collaboration between the University of Twente and Saxion University of Applied Sciences, the team secured an impressive 13th place out of 49 competing teams. Their entry, the Mirage-EVO, is a fully electric racing motorcycle that reflects the students’ commitment to sustainable technology and highlights the potential of electric vehicles in motorsport.
Performance highlights and challenges
The MotoStudent competition evaluates prototypes on various criteria, including agility and battery endurance. Throughout the event, the Mirage-EVO showcased exceptional capabilities, enabling the team to qualify for a strong position on the final race’s starting grid, ultimately securing 12th place.
Race day excitement
Race day proved exhilarating as Electric Superbike Twente pursued a top six finish. However, as they approached their goal, an unexpected mechanical issue—a loose contact point in the electric motor—resulted in their retirement during the final lap. Despite this setback, the team reflected on their performance with pride, having achieved their primary objective of winning the Rookie of the Year title.
Understanding the MotoStudent competition
Organized by the Moto Engineering Foundation in collaboration with TechnoPark MotorLand, the MotoStudent competition serves as a platform for aspiring engineers worldwide. It invites student teams to conceptualize, design, and construct real racing motorcycles, which are then tested on the FIM-certified MotorLand Aragón circuit.
The competition is divided into two categories: petrol and electric motorcycles. It emphasizes not only speed and performance but also innovation, teamwork, and the practical application of engineering principles. This unique environment allows students to transform theoretical knowledge into real-world applications while competing against leading technical universities.
Building for the future of racing
Electric Superbike Twente’s participation is particularly notable as they are the first team from the Netherlands to take on this challenge. Their journey exemplifies the achievements possible when a dedicated group of around 20 students unites with a shared vision over the course of an academic year.
By developing the Mirage-EVO, the team has not only created a powerful electric motorcycle but has also underscored the future potential of sustainable mobility in motorsport. Each year, the team undergoes a renewal process, with new students joining to continue the mission of advancing sustainable racing technology.
For those interested in following their journey or learning more about their innovative projects, additional information can be found on their official website at electricsuperbiketwente.nl or through their Instagram account at @electricsuperbiketwente.