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Baja SAE at Virginia Tech

Baja SAE at Virginia Tech designs, manufactures and races a single seat off-road vehicle to compete against other colleges in competitions across the U.S.

Baja cars racing on a very muddy track.

What is Baja SAE?

Baja SAE is an engineering design competition organized by the Society of Automotive Engineers. Teams are challenged to design and manufacture a single seat off-road vehicle to conquer any terrain, pushing the vehicle to its limits. The teams present their vehicle design engineering before testing on track. Teams compete in short course challenges focused on suspension, maneuverability, acceleration and more. This is followed by a 4 hour endurance race with over 100 vehicles on track at once.

We keep a fleet of cars running and we let everyone on the team drive. This lets everyone on the team experience how baja cars handle and gain hands-on engineering experience. Baja SAE is a great way to experience the entire engineering process, from ideas to functional parts.

The Baja car at the starting line of a winter, snowy race.
Baja cars on a track going over jumps.
The Baja team surrounds their car.
The Baja car jumping in the air.

Who can join? 

We are currently seeking dedicated students from any major with a passion for engineering, teamwork, and racing. For more information on how to join please email us.

Awards

In September 2024, the team placed 3rd overall out of 80 teams at Baja SAE Mchigan. This included 3rd Overall Dynamic, 2nd place in the Endurnce Race, 1st place in Suspension and Traction, and 2nd in Manuverability.

In May 2024, the team placed 3rd overall out of 105 teams at Baja SAE Williamsport. This included 1st in the Endurnce Race, and 1st in the Hill Climb.

In September 2023, the team placed 3rd overall out of 78 teams at Baja SAE Ohio. This included 1st Overall Dynamic, 3rd in the Endurnce Race, 2nd in Suspension and Traction, 3rd in Pilot Pull, and 3rd in Manuverability.

Fast Facts

Team size: About 45 members
Department Afiliation: Mechanical Engineering
Workshop: Ware Lab