Category: News

SpeedTalks: GKN Automotive

As part of our SpeedTalks event series, we had the privilege of hosting Övünç Çeliker, Platform Engineering Manager at GKN Automotive, at Özyeğin Üniversitesi. Mr. Övünç Çeliker shared invaluable insights, drawing from his own experiences and addressing topics that are not only critical for the automotive industry but also incredibly relevant to our IMechE Formula Student project and future careers. His discussion on technological advancements, innovations, and professional development opportunities provided us with a deeper understanding of the sector and actionable guidance for our work.

We are also immensely grateful for the support and participation of his colleague, Metehan Fidan whose presence further enriched the event. Their contributions and support for our project serve as a great source of motivation as we continue striving for success in the Formula Student competition.

A heartfelt thank you to GKN Automotive and Mr. Övünç Çeliker for their unwavering support and dedication to our journey. Their belief in our mission and commitment to our growth have inspired us to push our limits and strive for excellence. Thank you for guiding us on this incredible journey towards a brighter future in motorsports.

27/11/2024
Visiting YTU Racing: A Day of Collaboration

At the invitation of YTU Racing, Yıldız Technical University’s Formula Student team, we had the opportunity to visit their workshop on the Yıldız Technical University campus. This event, also attended by ITU Racing, provided a unique platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing among the teams. The day was filled with engaging discussions, valuable insights, and an exchange of technical expertise, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and mutual support. Together, we explored innovative solutions, shared experiences, and strengthened bonds between the teams, making it a productive and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

16/11/2024

OzU Racing at Formula Student UK 2024!

We are thrilled to share that OzU Racing, representing Ozyegin University, has made a significant mark at the Formula Student UK competition this year! Competing in the Concept Class, our team proudly secured 14^th place out of 37 teams, showcasing our dedication and innovative approach.

A standout achievement was our performance in the Cost & Manufacturing category, where we earned an impressive 6^th place. This recognition highlights our team’s commitment to both the engineering and financial aspects of our race car design.

We are particularly honored to have received congratulatory remarks from Darren Horsley, Senior Cost Estimator and one of the judges in this category. His kind words reflect the hard work and passion poured into our project:

Hi Team. I was one of your volunteer cost judges for your concept class entry. I wanted to say how impressed we were with your entry. Congratulations on coming 6^th. This is an excellent score. Keep up the good work and I will look forward to seeing more next year.
Darren Horsley
Senior Cost Estimator

We are incredibly proud of these accomplishments and grateful for the recognition. A huge thank you to everyone who supported us along the way!

Position	University	Car Number	LTS	Design	Cost	Presentation	Total
1	University of Glasgow	268	38.00	110	144.00	71.90	363.90
2	Universidade do Porto	320	34.23	100	150.00	70.39	354.62
3	ITESM	224	32.88	80	142.00	97.58	352.46
4	Ain Shams University	215	5.57	111	148.00	86.71	351.28
5	University of Portsmouth EV	113	13.55	90	148.00	86.10	337.65
6	Queen Mary University of London ICE	421	14.00	90	127.27	53.78	285.05
7	University of Manchester	365	29.09	80	96.73	73.11	278.93
8	Queen Mary University of London EV	221	18.60	65	129.82	60.73	274.14
9	ISAE SUPAERO	321	29.46	75	126.00	30.51	260.97
10	Brunel University London	227	21.22	90	92.91	55.29	259.42
11	The University of Hong Kong	168	8.52	55	105.64	79.15	248.31
12	University of Portsmouth ICE	217	-20.00	80	106.91	49.85	216.76
13	University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria	222	3.47	50	95.45	66.77	215.69
14	Ozyegin University	212	-5.29	35	129.82	55.89	215.42
15	Swansea University	11	3.39	50	90.36	64.65	208.41
16	University of Leicester	95	-20.00	100	98.00	0.00	178.00
17	Ferdowsi University of Mashhad	404	-20.00	90	44.55	62.54	177.08
18	University College London	495	12.67	30	56.00	71.60	170.27
19	Robert Gordon University	232	7.40	35	56.00	63.75	162.15
20	Newcastle University	313	13.55	0	95.45	46.83	155.83
21	Higher Technological Institute 10th Of Ramadan City	220	0.18	55	5.09	68.28	128.55
22	Liverpool John Moores University	422	-20.00	35	30.55	58.61	104.16
23	University of Huddersfield	414	-20.00	30	50.91	36.86	97.77
24	Edinburgh Napier University	218	-20.00	30	44.55	43.20	97.75
25	University of Hull	181	-20.00	40	25.45	45.92	91.38
26	Technical University Dublin Tallaght	415	-20.00	15	21.64	45.32	61.95
27	University of Surrey	420	-20.00	20	22.91	25.98	48.89
28	University of South Wales	369	-20.00	20	8.91	38.07	46.98
29	Munster Technological University	355	-20.00	0	31.82	24.47	36.29
30	University of Leeds	297	-20.00	5	-22.73	71.60	33.87
31	University of Plymouth	360	-20.00	15	-25.27	20.24	-10.03
32	University of Bradford	72	-20.00	0	-32.55	37.76	-14.78
33	King’s College London	277	-20.00	0	-71.45	70.09	-21.36
34	German International University	333	-5.04	0	-100.00	0.00	-105.04
35	Heriot-Watt University, Dubai Campus	204	-20.00	0	-100.00	0.00	-120.00
36	Menofia University	300	-20.00	0	-100.00	0.00	-120.00
37	Zagazig University	373	-20.00	0	-100.00	0.00	-120.00

02/08/2024

A Special Event: Maceranın Ötesinde

We were delighted to spend time and come together with our friends at the Ümraniye Special Education and Rehabilitation Center during “Maceranın Ötesinde” event which took place on May 18-19.

As OzU Racing, being a part of such a meaningful social responsibility project was very valuable to us.

We extend our deepest thanks to the Özyeğin University Outdoor Sports Club for hosting this valuable social responsibility project and bringing us together with our friends.

We hope to see you again next year!

19/05/2024
Mastering Time Management
In the world of Formula Student racing, where the harmony of engineering, strategy, and teamwork dictates the difference between victory and defeat, the OzU Racing Team from Ozyegin University is setting a benchmark not just on the track, but off it as well. The team’s latest stride towards excellence? A comprehensive “Time Management Training” program designed to sharpen focus, enhance productivity, and drive the team towards its ambitious goals.

The Formula Student competition, a proving ground for the brightest engineering students worldwide, demands not just technical brilliance but also exceptional project management skills. For the OzU Racing Team, this means juggling design, construction, testing, and competition phases under tight deadlines. The realization dawned upon the team that mastering time management could significantly boost their efficiency and performance both individually and as a unit.

Understanding that generic time management principles might not fully resonate with the unique demands of Formula Student racing, the OzU Racing Team embarked on a tailored “Time Management Training” program. This initiative was designed to align with the specific challenges and workflows encountered by the team members.

Key Components of the Training
- Goal Setting: Training began with setting clear, attainable goals for both the short term (daily and weekly tasks) and the long term (project milestones and competition targets). This step ensured that every team member had a clear vision of what they were working towards.
- Prioritization Techniques: Given the multitude of tasks facing the team, learning how to prioritize effectively was crucial. The training emphasized the Eisenhower Matrix (urgent-important matrix) to classify tasks and focus efforts where they were most needed.
- Time Blocking: To combat the pitfalls of multitasking and context switching, the team was introduced to time blocking. This technique involves dedicating specific blocks of time to individual tasks, thereby improving focus and productivity.
- Eliminating Time Wasters: Identifying and mitigating common time wasters, including unnecessary meetings, excessive planning, and digital distractions, formed a key part of the training.
- Stress Management: Recognizing that time management isn’t just about doing more but also about maintaining well-being, the program covered stress management techniques. This included regular breaks, physical exercise, and mindfulness practices.
The Impact on the Team

The effects of the “Time Management Training” were evident almost immediately. Team members reported feeling more in control of their tasks and deadlines, leading to a noticeable decrease in stress levels. Moreover, the team saw an improvement in meeting project milestones, with more time dedicated to refining their vehicle’s design and performance.

Looking Ahead

For the OzU Racing Team, this training was more than a one-time intervention; it’s a continuous journey towards peak efficiency and effectiveness. The team plans to integrate these time management principles into their everyday workflows and to refine their practices as they gear up for future competitions.

Special thanks to our fellow friend Alperen Çimen from Ozyegin University for delivering this lecture.
01/03/2024
First Meeting of OZU Racing

In the heart of the bustling campus, the OzU Racing team gathered for their inaugural meeting, marking a momentous occasion for all involved. This assembly, brimming with anticipation and enthusiasm, served as the cornerstone for what promises to be a journey filled with innovation, camaraderie, and the pursuit of excellence in the realm of competitive racing.

As members congregated, there was a palpable sense of unity and a shared vision—to not only compete but to innovate and lead in the dynamic world of racing. The meeting began with introductions, allowing each member to share their background, expertise, and aspirations within the team. This exchange fostered an immediate sense of community and mutual respect, essential ingredients for the collaborative environment OzU Racing aims to cultivate.

The agenda swiftly moved to the heart of the meeting: outlining the team’s objectives, strategies, and the roadmap ahead. Discussion ranged from technical innovations and vehicle design to team branding, outreach, and securing sponsorships. Every topic was met with eager input and creative ideas, highlighting the diverse skill set and the drive to excel that each member brings to the table.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the principles of teamwork and ethical competition. OzU Racing is committed not just to achieving success on the track but also to embodying values of integrity, respect, and sportsmanship. This ethos is set to guide the team in all its endeavors, ensuring that their journey is not only about the speeds they achieve but also about the positive impact they make.

As the meeting drew to a close, there was a collective feeling of excitement for the future. The team had laid down the foundation of their mission and vision, setting the stage for the hard work and groundbreaking achievements that lie ahead. The OzU Racing team left the meeting energized, ready to embark on their journey with determination and the unwavering belief that together, they can reach new heights and redefine the boundaries of racing.

21/02/2024