Meet the team

Five subteams. One Baja car.

UCalgary Baja brings together students across engineering, software, data, fabrication, and business to build a race-ready off-road vehicle from the ground up.

How we build

Every subsystem has an owner. Every member has a way in.

Each subteam focuses on a specific area of the vehicle or organization, but no group works alone. Design reviews, testing, manufacturing, data, logistics, and competition prep all overlap into one shared build cycle.

Chassis & Ergo

This sub-team is responsible for the car's frame and driver-vehicle interfaces. This team focuses on designing and constructing a frame that works with the systems from all the other sub-teams. This involves tube fabrication and welding. Additionally, this team focuses on designing the car to be comfortable, easy to drive, and easy to get in and out. This involves gathering data, creating complex shapes and surfaces, and working with composite materials like fiberglass to build parts.

Drivetrain

The drivetrain sub-team is responsible for designing everything that gets the power of the engine to the wheels. Key components include the continuously variable transmission, brakes, gearbox, propshaft, axles, and wheel hub assemblies. Through hands-on learning and mentorship, members develop a comprehensive skill set in CAD, FEA, CAM, and machining.

Vehicle Handling

This sub-team manages the vehicle's maneuverability and handling capabilities. The vehicle's handling characteristics are determined through rigorous development of the suspension and steering geometry in simulation software and hand calculations. This sub-team collaborates frequently with chassis & ergonomics to optimize geometries. A wide variety of machining techniques and software are used to bring designs to life, including finite element analysis and CNC machining.

Electronics & Software

Electronics and Software is responsible for the hardware and software of all non-mechanical systems that the team uses. Systems on the car include telemetry systems, kill switches, lights and the wiring of all systems. Off the car, this team is responsible for systems associated with data acquisition to support the testing of the car to aid with design decisions. Additionally, this team is responsible for any software associated with the systems mentioned as well as managing UCalgary Baja's server and website.

Business

Business focuses on the Logistical side of the team and prepares students for real-world industry challenges. The team creates and competes in the Business Presentation event at Baja SAE, where students pitch a concept proposal as if seeking funding or support. Beyond competition, the team works to secure sponsorships and represent UCalgary Baja at local events in Calgary. Members also create media, manage the team’s online presence, and help oversee finances to keep the team running smoothly.