EV Race Cars

Problem Statement:
The startup OEM needed to develop two high-performance electric vehicle (EV) race cars using Audi donor vehicles. The primary challenge was ensuring that these vehicles could deliver 1000 horsepower and reach speeds of 200 mph, while integrating a complex electrical system that had never been used together before.

 

Solution:
Our solution was to manage the electrical integration and overall project execution by leveraging a multidisciplinary team. We focused on ensuring the proper integration of the electrical wiring harness, the startup of the vehicles' electrical systems, and the seamless functioning of all software and hardware components.

 

Execution:
As the principal electrical engineering manager, I led the team through a structured approach:

- Team Management: We divided assignments among the team, held regular meetings to address pain points, and fostered a collaborative environment where strengths were leveraged, and weaknesses were addressed collectively.

- Technical Integration: Ensured the proper integration of the electrical wiring harness and provided the team with accurate schematics. Supervised and assisted with the software integration for the vehicle control unit, traction control units, and other components.

- Software Tools: Utilized various tools like Click Up, Microsoft Project, Vector Tools, Preevision, Canalyzer, Canape, and New Eagle Raptor to maintain timelines and manage project progress.

- Communication: Held weekly touchpoint meetings, nightly letters, daily stand-ups, and managers’ close-out meetings to ensure clear and consistent communication.

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- Critical Thinking: Applied critical thinking techniques, such as the "5 Whys," to identify and solve problems, and communicated findings back to suppliers.

 

Result:
The project culminated in the successful development of two EV race cars that met the high-performance criteria and were showcased in the OEM's marketing tour across the country. The collaborative effort and effective management practices ensured the timely and successful completion of this complex and challenging project.

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