Centaurus Racing – The Beginning of a New Era: E-mobility and Innovation
The academic year 2024–2025 marks a milestone for Centaurus Racing, as articulated by Associate Professor and scientific project leader, Mr. Alexis Kermanidis. The team is advancing towards the construction of its first electric single-seater equipped with a high-voltage battery. This endeavor represents the culmination of 15 years of dedicated research, transitioning from the previous ten single-seaters that were powered by internal combustion engines.
The new electric single-seater integrates a range of technological innovations, including:
- An electric motor paired with a high-voltage battery
- A composite full monocoque chassis designed to reduce weight while enhancing speed and stiffness
- Novel kinematics and a new type of tires
- A redesigned aerodynamic package tailored to meet contemporary requirements
- An advanced 5G telemetry system for real-time data collection and analysis, marking its second consecutive year of implementation
This initiative exemplifies the creativity, collaboration, and high level of expertise demonstrated by the students at the University of Thessaly, thereby strengthening the team’s standing within the global academic and technological landscape.
International Participation in Summer 2025
The team is scheduled to unveil the new electric single-seater at three international Formula Student competitions during the summer of 2025:
- FS Czech (Czech Republic): August 4 – 10, 2025
- FS Alpe Adria (Croatia): August 11 – 17, 2025
- FS Germany (Germany): August 18 – 24, 2025
These participations will enhance the international visibility of the University and provide invaluable experiences for the students, facilitating connections with the global scientific and technological community.
THE TEAM
The student team Centaurus Racing was established in 2009 in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Thessaly, with a focus on the study, design, and construction of Formula-type racing single-seaters. Since its inception, over 500 students from the Department and other faculties of the University have actively engaged with the team, showcasing the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation.
Centaurus Racing competes in the international Formula Student competitions, which are recognized as the premier student engineering competitions globally. The primary objective of these competitions is to promote applied knowledge, cultivate a spirit of collaboration, foster creativity, and bridge the gap between the academic community and industry.
