F1 experts work with students from the National Centre for Motorsport Engineering

Students from the National Centre for Motorsport Engineering (NCME) have been working hand-in-hand with Formula One (F1) experts to prepare and race the historic Ensign 180B ground effect car.

This is an exciting and innovative challenge for students, as F1 rules related to aerodynamics have been altered many times over the years, with new regulations due in 2022; so students are developing real-time skills and learning about changes across the industry as they happen.

As part of the project, those studying at the NCME are being guided by a technician, as well as working with well-respected motorsport professional Willem Toet, who has an impressive background in F1 and a career that spans huge names, including Ferrari, Benetton and Sauber; making him one of the industry’s most successful aerodynamicists.

Together, they will be looking at how innovations in aerodynamics can be incorporated into the NCME’s Ensign 180B car, modifying the vehicle accordingly and competing in a number of races where they can put their designs to the test.

This type of learning reinforces the University of Bolton’s policy of being a Teaching Intensive, Research Informed (TIRI) institution, and highlights its commitment to providing students with the opportunity to engage and learn directly from industry professionals.

Dara Farrington is studying a master’s in Motorsport Engineering at the NCME and really values the hands-on learning she gets with experts such as Willem as part of her course.

“I did the BSc Motorsport Technology course as an undergraduate and that was really interesting and steered me in the direction of the master’s. I'd also say if you're passionate about engineering, just do it, it's a great course and there is so much support from industry experts to help you get through it”, she says.

Find out more about a degree from the National Centre for Motorsport Engineering at the University of Bolton, which is ranked in the Top 50 best UK universities in The Guardian 2021 league table. We’re proud to be known for our teaching quality, supportive learning environment and award-winning student services; welcome to #UniAsItShouldBe in Greater Manchester.

Not only have we been the No.1 in the North West for Student Satisfaction for the past three years*, but we’re also in the Top 5 in the UK for Teaching Quality**.

For questions related to accommodation, finance, funding, health and wellbeing, disability support or anything else you’d like to chat about, our Student Services Team is here to help. Contact +44(0)1204 900 600 or email enquiries@bolton.ac.uk.

Learn more by watching the Sky F1 video.

*Complete University Guide in 2021, 2020 and 2019
**The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide in 2021 and 2020