Formula Student is an international competition series for engineering teams from universities. Students design, construct, and build racing cars, which, after presentation and testing phases, compete on some of the world’s most renowned racetracks—famous for hosting prestigious events like Formula 1. It’s no coincidence that Formula Student is often referred to as a proving ground for future Formula 1 talents.

This year, the Proton Dynamic team developed a new car for the competition, based on established designs but refined and enhanced over the years. Thanks to a well-designed project, the team achieved a weight close to 230 kg, despite using a steel frame—almost 65 kg lighter than the team's previous model. Additionally, the car features a new aerodynamic package, significantly more complex and refined compared to the PD1.5, which enhances the vehicle's performance. Another important change was the driver’s seat, specially designed and modeled for the team’s drivers to ensure maximum ergonomics. This allowed the drivers to focus solely on racing and achieving the best possible results.

Difficult beginnings

The Proton Dynamic students kicked off their season at the Hockenheim track with the Formula Student Germany competition (August 12–18). After passing all the required technical inspections, including the particularly challenging Electrical Inspection, they were ready to compete in the dynamic events. They achieved a solid time in the Skidpad event (a figure-eight course), but were disappointed with their performance in the Acceleration event (a 75-meter sprint). The Autocross (a full lap endurance test) and Endurance (a 22 km race on the track with no recharging or repairs allowed) also did not meet the team's expectations.

"The competition in Germany were a significant test for us, both technologically and organizationally," says Cezary Paczóski. "Despite the challenges, we learned valuable lessons that we applied in the subsequent stages of the season."

Progress

Immediately after the competition in Germany, the students traveled to Croatia for the Formula Student Alpe Adria competition (August 20–25). Here, they also passed all technical inspections without significant issues.

"Our car performed increasingly better, which allowed us to achieve satisfying results," explains Wojciech Piwoński. "We successfully completed the Skidpad event, demonstrating the stability and precision of our vehicle. In the Acceleration event, we managed to achieve a time of under 4 seconds, and in the Autocross, we went below 50 seconds, which marked a significant improvement for us."

“The competition in Croatia allowed us to make vital improvements to the car, preparing us for the next challenges,” adds Paweł Maciaszczyk.

This year, the Proton Dynamic drivers used a new seat—designed and custom molded specifically to their needs

Successes

"At the national Formula Student Poland competition (August 27–September 2), we achieved some of our best results of the season, both in dynamic and static events," says Wojciech Piwoński.

These results include: 3^rd place in the overall standings, 1^st place in Acceleration, 2^nd place in Business Plan Presentation (presenting a potential business plan related to the Formula Student team), 3^rd place in Cost and Manufacturing (demonstrating the costs and benefits associated with the project, financial planning, and management), and 3^rd place in Engineering Design (defending each design and engineering decision related to the project).

“These results are a significant achievement for us and confirm that our hard work pays off not only on the track but also in our theoretical and business preparations,” points out Cezary Paczóski. “We were able to present not only an excellent car but also a comprehensive plan for its development and production.”

Conclusion

“Season 2024 was full of challenges for the Proton Dynamic team, but also brought successes that strengthened our position in the Formula Student world,” summarizes Wojciech Piwoński. “We participated in all key events, completed thorough technical inspections in Germany and Croatia, and our results, especially in Poland, confirm that we are on the right track. The experience and knowledge we have gained will help us prepare even better for the next season.”