Study Of Braking Distance And Time Characteristics During Low-Speed Braking In A Formula Sae Electric Vehicle

Abstract

This research presents an experimental investigation into the braking performance of a Formula SAE-style electric vehicle (EV) prototype at low to moderate speeds ranging from 20 km/h to 60 km/h. Using the FRATEC EV Race Car platform, developed for educational and competitive applications, the study focused on measuring stopping distance, braking time, and brake temperature under controlled dry asphalt conditions. A total of five braking trials were conducted at discrete speeds (20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 km/h), and results indicated a nonlinear increase in stopping distance and brake temperature with speed. Stopping distances ranged from 3.1 meters at 20 km/h to 8.2 meters at 60 km/h, while brake temperatures increased from 48°C to 75°C. Braking time also showed a gradual increase, from 1.6 seconds at 20 km/h to 2.7 seconds at 60 km/h. The findings highlight the importance of optimized braking system design, thermal management, and consistent deceleration characteristics in enhancing safety and reliability in electric race cars. This study contributes valuable empirical data for future design validation in Formula SAE EV competitions.