Formula Bharat 2024 marked our team's third onsite entry into the competition, following two onsite and two virtual events in previous seasons. This year, 'Mirage FS 5,' our latest addition, featured a Standalone ECU for a reliable cold start. Notably, we qualified for the Engineering Design Finals, adding a new layer of challenge.

The six-day event, held at Kari Motor Speedway from January 19th to 25th, showcased our technical prowess in static events, securing finalist positions in Engineering Design and an AIR 10 in Business Plan. With proven capabilities in static events, the team was poised to demonstrate its mettle in onsite competitions.

The onsite event kicked off on January 19th, with a distinct start as the team entered with the vehicle on Day 0. Divided into two groups, the team efficiently completed registration, executed a basic pit setup, and worked on the vehicle for Pre-Tech and Mechanical Technical Inspection on Day 1.

Day 1 brought significant challenges during the Pre-Technical Inspection, with long wait times. Despite the difficulties, the team successfully completed it, preparing for the Mechanical Technical Inspection on Day 2 and the Design Finals on January 21st.

Day 2 showcased the team's dedication in simultaneous participation in Mech TI and Design Finals. Although the first Mech TI attempt was successful, non-compliances and safety-critical issues were addressed. The Design Finals went well, leading to positive feedback from judges.

With Design Finals completed, Day 3 focused on clearing Mech TI. Despite challenges, the team addressed non-compliances and worked on the vehicle in the hot pits. The day ended with a resolution for a 50 mm wheel travel discrepancy using metal spacers.

Day 4 marked the culmination of technical inspections, with a successful Mechanical TI clearance, tilt test, and noise test. The team overcame challenges, earning all three tech stickers in a single day, a remarkable feat.

Day 5 featured the final main event, 'Endurance,' where unfortunately, no team from the combustion category qualified. The day shifted focus to making connections and receiving positive feedback on our technical prowess.

Overall, Team Formula Ashwariders secured AIR 8 nationally among 37 combustion teams. The team showcased design prowess, qualifying for finals, achieving AIR 6 in Engineering Design, AIR 8 in CRM, AIR 11 in Cost and Manufacturing, and AIR 10 in Business Plan.

The team expresses gratitude to the TECH PALLOTTINE family, faculty members, and sponsors. The event was a roller coaster, overcoming challenges to earn recognition and valuable connections. The team eagerly looks forward to claiming the podium in the future!