The goal of the powertrain is to move the car forward. In an internal combustion engine, this is accomplished by converting chemical energy stored in a combustible fuel source into mechanical energy. An internal combustion engine burns the fuel to create rotational energy. This is transmitted to the ground through the drivetrain. Should this be a system level analysis?

Engine

Main page: Engine

The engine is the center of the internal combustion powertrain system. All other components of the greater system exist to service the engine in different ways. This means the engine is sensitive to design changes made across the entire powertrain. As of 2019, the FSAE rules require an internal combustion engine with a displacement of 710cc or less. Available OEM motors within this displacement limit are largely sourced from motorcycles and snowmobiles.

Engine Control

Main page: Engine control

Intake

Main page: Intake

The intake system has a dominant effect on the torque curve and behavior of the powertrain system. All air used by the engine(s) for combustion must pass through a 25mm opening, commonly referred to as a 'restrictor'. For naturally aspirated engines, this restriction limits the maximum power output from the engine to about 100 hp.

Exhaust

Main page: Exhaust

The use of a combustion powerThe competition rules limit sound output of the engine.

Fuel

Main page: Fuel

The fuels available at US competitions are gasoline of octane ratings 93 and 100, and E85.

Cooling

Main page: Cooling

Drivetrain

Main page: Drivetrain

System Testing

Chassis Dynamometer

Test Procedures

System Data and Data Collection

System Simulation

Multi-component model

Health and Safety

Fire Hazards

Best Practices

Advanced System Design

Traction Control

Vibration reduction

Industrial Motors

Theoretical Powertrain Designs

Notable History

Trends

Notable Alternative designs