New Trier Formula Student Project 2022 - Current

The Vision

What are students doing?

Since 2022, New Trier students have been working on a Formula Student Vehicle, taking on various responsibilities.

  • Redesign of prints we obtained
  • Fabrication of the chassis
  • Design and Fabrication of the role cage
  • Design and Fabrication of the front suspension
  • Design and Fabrication of the rear suspension.
  • Investigation and research into power train options
Roll Cage Fabrication

Roll Cage Fabrication

Students Learned:

  • Prototyping
  • Notching Tube
  • Tube Bending
  • Fit out
  • Mig Welding of Tube
  • CAD Modeling

Suspension

Front Suspension Development

There have been a number of iterations developed and improved on since the start of the 2024-2025 school year.

1st Iteration

Another school gave the class the suspension as a starting point. During the 2022-2023 school year, a group of students built the provided version. Several shortcomings were found, and it was determined that the group needed to redesign the suspension over the summer.

2nd Iteration

This design was developed over the summer of 2024. During the prototyping phase, using PVC pipes, it was determined that the design would not fit into the wheel hub and did not give enough room for the brake's calipers and steering knuckle.

3rd Iteration

This iteration was quickly developed from September to October of 2024. While clearances with the tire and rim were addressed and the manufactuing of the A-Arms was tested, it was determined that the shock, steering, and steering knuckle assemblies would not be able to work within the given area.

4th Iteration

This is the current iteration and is currently being fabricated. It has accounted for the appropriate spacing and fitment for steering and suspension components.

This change will require some modifications to the frame to deal with some of the forces being exerted.

Final Assembly Drawing

Student Testimonial:

Proof of Process and Concept Work

Final Prototype and Proof of Concept

Completed Front Suspension

2025 - 2026 Goals

  • Brake Pedal and Steering Assembly
  • Rear Suspension
  • Floor Pans
  • Fully Functioning Brakes

2026 - 2027 Goals

  • Powertrain Installation
  • Test Drive of the Vehicle
  • Fiberglass Body Shell
  • Electrical System (Headlights, Brake lights, etc.)

We need your help:

This project is beyond the scope and scale of the typical Automobiles class. We rely heavily on donations to keep this project moving forward

Wish List:

  • Rims and tires
  • Powertrain (2 electric dirtbikes)

How to Donate:

Direct donations of parts are always welcome. Monetary donations can be made by contacting the Applied Arts Department Chair

Questions? Contact: Nathan Silvers silversn@nths.net

Current Sponsor and Donors:

We owe a special thank you to the following people and groups who've contributed to the extraordinary educational experience of this project!

  • New Trier High School Applied Arts Department
  • New Trier Educational Foundation