Team

The Aerodynamics Subteam designs, simulates, and manufactures wings, bodywork, and other aerodynamic elements for our car. Our members use computer-aided design, computational fluid dynamics, and carbon fiber manufacturing techniques to complete a full vehicle aerodynamics package.

The Composites Subteam does research, designs, and manufactures custom composite components to create efficient and robust parts for the car. We also work closely with the Aerodynamics Subteam in the creation of the aero package and bodywork for the car, as well as other composite parts.

The Chassis Subteam designs and manufactures the vehicle's structural framework, providing attachment points for various components, protecting the driver, and withstanding the static and dynamic loads experienced during racing.

The Suspension Subteam designs and develops the vehicle's suspension system, connecting the wheels to the chassis while optimizing handling, stability, and tire contact with the track to maximize performance during racing.

The Powertrain Subteam is in charge of power transfer from the accumulator to the wheels. They choose and implement parts for the motors, transmissions, driveline components, and design any required mounting components.

The Cooling Subteam designs, builds, and maintains the car’s cooling system to effectively dissipate heat from the motor and inverter during operation.They also work closely with the Electrical and Powertrain Subteams to integrate the cooling system with heat-generating components and ensure reliable system performance throughout competition.

The Brakes Subteam is responsible for designing, manufacturing, and validating a system that can decelerate the car without losing stability or consistency. This allows the car to corner at optimal speeds as well as come to a complete stop while driving.

The Ergonomics Subteam is responsible for all driver interface with the car except for brakes. This includes designing, manufacturing, and validating systems relating to driver safety, driver comfort, and steering.

The Firmware Subteam develops the car's firmware, wireless/live telemetry for data collection, testing and validation plans in collaboration with other subteams, and advanced sensor projects. They tackle a wide range of projects, bringing together members with diverse backgrounds and skills, and maintain strong collaboration with the Low Voltage Subteam.

The High Voltage Subteam handles everything from the battery pack to the motor, including custom electronics, cabling, and hardware.

The Low Voltage Subteam is responsible for connecting all of the electrical components across the car. This connects the various subsystems, allowing for data acquisition and controls systems.

The Autonomous subteam is responsible for the car's driverless system, spanning software, electrical, and mechanical systems. This includes designing, manufacturing, and validating the following: perception, localization, path planning, and control software; sensor and compute hardware; and actuation and safety systems that enable the car to drive itself.

The Marketing and Outreach Subteam promotes Panther Racing through publicity events, alumni relations, crowdfunding, and corporate partnerships. Through initiatives such as the Panther Racing Newsletter, Rollout, and recruitment events, the subteam showcases the team’s achievements, strengthens external relationships, and fosters a positive team culture.

The Social Media Subteam is responsible for managing the team's online presence on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok to showcase the team's progress, events, sponsors, and behind-the-scenes moments. Make sure to follow us @pittfsae!

The Finance Subteam is responsible for the allocation of our budget to our technical subteams along with tracking their purchases. For competition, they are responsible for the cost report, real cost event, and a portion of the business presentation.