Lecturer's Perspective: The Silverstone FIA World Rallycross

The Silverstone round of the FIA World Rallycross Championship fell on the bank holiday at the end of May, a group of 6 students from across all stages of the course volunteered for four days work experience, leaving immediately after their last exam.

Our students played a vital role in this world-class event, our students were partnered with FIA scrutineers and officials, giving a great insight into how competitors are checked for eligibility and compliance in this cutting edge competition.

Pre-event scrutineering involved checking that vehicles conformed to relevant standards for safety and homologation, our students had to check safety certificates and safety equipment to ensure that everything was within date.

Harnesses, fire extinguishers and other safety devices were checked to be functional and without damage. Certain components had to be measured for compliance with the regulations and security seals were applied to seal units and prevent tampering.

From an engineering point of view, this experience was invaluable to the students as they gained unique access to the inner workings of every car on the grid across 3 different classes.

Our students had to interact with all the teams and met all the drivers, as their overalls and race helmets also had to be checked. During the event, our students were involved with checking noise levels, the weighbridge, tyre checks and worked closely with FIA officials.

I am extremely proud of the professionalism shown by my students during the invaluable experience they gained by assisting the organisers of an FIA world-titled event and can’t wait to see them progress in their careers.

James Kitson (Lecturer)

Motorsport & Automotive Performance Engineering