Understanding the basic concept of vehicle systems is essential to designing and enhancing these systems. This module will introduce you to these systems and how they operate. You will learn about the fundamentals of the Internal combustion engine, cooling, lubrication, steering, braking and suspension systems, both theoretically and practically. You will also develop your Engineering profile by developing your network of contacts, CV writing skills and potential job/placement applications.

A 2000-word assignment assessing the understanding of the basic engine operation and modern techniques employed by vehicle manufacturers. This will be supported by the development of a single cylinder engine using simulation software. This assignment is weighted at 50% assessing learning outcome 1 and 3. AHEP4: C1, C3, C4, C7, C12, C13

A 500-word laboratory logbook weighted at 20% assessing learning outcome 2. During the practical workshop sessions, you will complete a Lab Logbook summarising tasks and recording your findings. Meeting AHEP 4 Outcomes: C12, C13

A 1500-word assignment based on completing a CV relevant to an Automotive career suitable for the individual, weighted at 30% and assessing learning outcome 4. Meeting AHEP 4 Outcome: C18

Professional Body requirements mean that a minimum overall score of 40% is required to pass a module, with each element of assessment requiring a minimum mark of 30% unless otherwise stated.

This module will enable students to gain understanding, apply knowledge, analyse and evaluate problems and create solutions through a variety of activities, including:¿¿

Taught Lectures¿¿

Tutorials

Workshop Practical Task

Student-centred learning to include research and practical activities¿

1. Demonstrate a systematic knowledge of the importance of individual components and systems of modern road and race vehicles. (AHEP 4: C1, C4)

Knowledge and Understanding

Learning

2. Apply techniques and knowledge relevant to automotive and motorsport engineering to analyse and evaluate problems. (AHEP 4: C12, C13)

Application

Analysis

Enquiry

Problem solving

Reflection

3. Analyse, through simulation, an internal combustion engine for power, performance and efficiency. (AHEP 4: C3, C4, C7)

Knowledge and Understanding

Learning

Enquiry

Analysis

Reflection

4. Demonstrate development of key personal skills such as critical thinking. Identify potential career paths based on the general and specific skills required for a career within Automotive or Motorsport. (AHEP 4: C18)

Communication

Reflection

Standard classroom facilities

Computer lab with Realis Wave Software

Automotive workshop facilities

You will need protective footwear for the Automotive Workshop.

Anderson, L. E. and Bolt, S. B., (2016) Professionalism: Skills for workplace. Pearson

Bosch R., (2022) Bosch Automotive Handbook, 11th Edition Wiley

Heisler H., (1998) Vehicle and Engine Technology Second Edition Butterworth-Heinemann

Heywood J., (2019) Internal Combustion Engine Fundamentals 2nd Edition

Hillier V. A. W., (2012) Hillier’s Fundamentals of Motor Vehicle Technology Book 1 OUP Oxford

Hillier V. A. W., (2012) Hillier’s Fundamentals of Automotive Electronics Book 2 OUP Oxford

Seward D., (2014) Race Car Design Red Globe Press

Smith J., (2013) Smith’s Fundamentals of Motorsport Engineering OUP Oxford

This module will introduce you to the fundamental terminology, science and technologies commonly used in the automotive and motorsport industries. You will become familiar with the basic components of a vehicle and gain an appreciation for how they are integrated together. You will, through the use of simulation software, develop a single-cylinder engine and perform basic tuning to develop the engine power and performance.

We will provide you with practical opportunities to become familiar with the basic elements and practices associated with automotive and motorsport engineering and vehicle systems. You will be able to explore some of the parameters used to assess vehicle performance and, through laboratory work learn how to use standard equipment to measure the performance of a vehicle. We will also introduce those methods that motorsport industry uses to enhance the performance of vehicles. This will give you the basic skills to build upon in further studies.

Finally, you will begin to be prepared for your future career in the Automotive or Motorsport Engineering industry, investigating and identifying potential career paths and understanding your current position and place in society in relation to your aspirations.