The Introduction to Motorsport Engineering short course serves as an introductory exploration into the dynamic and exhilarating field of motorsport engineering. Through a blend of theoretical concepts and practical applications, students will delve into the fundamental principles that underpin the design, development, and optimization of vehicles for competitive racing. The course will encompass various aspects of motorsport engineering, including but not limited to vehicle dynamics, powertrain systems, materials science, vehicle electrical systems, data analysis and motorsport simulation.
Compared to online courses and practitioner led workshops, Cranfield鈥檚 Introduction to Motorsport Engineering uniquely introduces both engineering theory and methodologies alongside practical workshops utilising facilities within the Advanced Vehicle Engineering Centre.
It is open to students interested in the discipline without or with limited prior experience who are studying for a degree in engineering, maths, physics or electronics. It is recommended to prospective students for the MSc Advanced Motorsport Engineering and the MSc Advanced Motorsport Mechatronics.
At a glance
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- Dates
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- 27 Jul - 01 Aug 2026
- DurationFive days
- LocationCranfield campus
- Cost拢1,500
Course structure
Lectures and practical sessions covering the design, development, manufacture and operation of competition vehicles for competitive advantage.
What you will learn
This course will provide you with an understanding of engineering in relation to competition vehicles. Valuable to those with non-engineering backgrounds who are studying subjects such as electronics, physics and applied mathematics. If you are studying mechanical engineering, the course should help you place your understanding in the context of motorsport.
I attended Cranfield's Introduction to Motorsport Engineering short course in July 2019. The course delivered what the course title states. It is a really useful introductory course. As a delegate I received a comprehensive set of notes covering key aspects. There were practical sessions using Cranfield's facilities. The course team made us all really welcome and it was a good experience working with like-minded delegates. Thoroughly recommended, especially for those intending to study one of Cranfield's two motorsport MSc courses.
As someone with some background in automotive engineering, and considering a career change, this short course provided an exceptional introduction to the unique demands of motorsport engineering compared to consumer vehicle development. I had an incredible time, with unparalleled access to expert knowledge from the programme team, superb facilities, and hands-on sessions that brought theoretical concepts to life. For instance, learning the principles of competition vehicle dynamics and then applying them on the track the same day was unforgettable. I can鈥檛 recall the last time I learned so much while having such a blast, and it solidified my determination to pursue a career in the sector.
I came to the short course with prior motorsport knowledge but almost none of the technical or theoretical knowledge that forms it's base. By the end of the course I most certainly felt that I left with a solid foundation of the basic concepts and a beginning into the more intricate aspects.
At no one point did I feel bored on the course, I felt welcomed, all the staff were super friendly and extremely interesting to talk to, as well as making sure everyone was included regardless of their academic background. I would say it's definitely worth the money if you can afford it.
This Motorsport short course was honestly one of the most engaging learning experiences I’ve had. Each day brought something new—from understanding electric systems to diving into simulation tools and data analysis. The hands-on parts, especially using AVL CRUISE M and the driver simulator, really helped me connect the theory to real-world racing.
The instructors were great at breaking things down and answering questions, and the mix of topics kept things fresh and exciting. I came away with a much better understanding of how race cars are engineered and how data plays a huge role in performance. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone interested in motorsport engineering.
Core content
- An overview of competition vehicle types
- Competition vehicle performance and dynamics
- Competition vehicle electrical systems and data analysis
- Materials and structures as applied to motorsport
- Power train architecture
- Competition vehicle design
- Manufacturing techniques extant in motorsport
- Simulation and Data Analysis
Who should attend
Students: valuable if you have a non-engineering background and are studying subjects such as electronics, physics and applied mathematics. If you are studying mechanical engineering, it should help you place this understanding in the context of motorsport.
Speakers
- Professor James Brighton - Head of Advanced Vehicle Engineering Centre
- Dr Kim Blackburn
- Dr Aaron Costall
- Dr Terence Richards
- Mr Mike Bayes
- Dr Timothy Rose
Accommodation options and prices
This course is non-residential. If you would like to book accommodation on campus, please contact Mitchell Hall or Cranfield Management Development Centre directly. Further information about our on campus accommodation can be found . Alternatively you may wish to make your own arrangements at a nearby hotel.
Location and travel
SWAG合集 is situated in Bedfordshire close to the border with Buckinghamshire.
The School is located almost midway between the towns of Bedford and Milton Keynes and is conveniently situated between junctions 13 and 14 of the M1.
London Luton, Stansted and Heathrow airports are 30, 90 and 90 minutes respectively by car, offering superb connections to and from just about anywhere in the world.
Location address
SWAG合集
Wharley End
Cranfield
Bedford
MK43 0HG
How to apply
To apply for this course please use the online application form.
Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.