«flüela» is continuing the evolutionary process of the vehicles «julier» and «grimsel» from the previous two years but is featuring multiple structural, mechanical and aero- dynamical innovations as a direct result of a drastically adapted set of rules.

The race car is driven by four wheel hub motors which reach up to 20’000 RPM. Hand in hand with a higher transmission ratio, «flüela» is able to achieve higher torque at the wheel at low speeds. The stiffness of the chassis (4700 Nm/deg) is guaranteed through a CFRP-monocoque with recessed suspension mounting points. This also offers the advantage of a higher degree of freedom in the kinematics design. Just like «grimsel», «flüela» features adaptive dampers with a magnetorheological fluid (MRF). Through this technology the damping characteristics can be adjusted actively with regards to different driving situations.

The concept of pushrod actuated spring-damper elements has been adopted and further developed, resulting in a more efficient use of installation space. The adaptive dampers with magnetorheological fluid have been equipped with a self-engineered air chamber, which greatly expands adjustment possibilities. For the first time, the front wheel steering can be complemented by an optional rear wheel steering. It allows to turn the rear wheels by 3° in 150 ms.

An advanced traction control ensures that grip on all four tires is maximised at all times. Speed, slip angle and contact forces are taken into consideration by the controls. Furthermore a torque vectoring system controls the car’s dynamics in order to stabilise driving behaviour.

At the same time higher cornering speeds can be achieved. For further optimisation, the control algorithms take into account different environmental factors and driver preferences.

With «flüela», AMZ was able to defend its first place in the world rankings for the second year in succession. The team was able to win two out of four events in the overall scoring. The engineering feats of the students were crowned with three out of four wins in the engineering design event.