The paper discusses the benefits that have been achieved through the design and construction of a Formula SAE racecar both as part of mechanical and mechatronics engineering curriculum and as a core element of a research group. The project was seen as an aid to develop life long generic skills and as a means to reinforce management skills via engaged learning. The student group work involved design and development of the racecar from inception to completion over two semesters. Postgraduates, who took the role as team leaders of student groups, were able to use the car as a test bed for developing intelligent systems. Both the undergraduates and postgraduates were able to reinforce engineering management principles during the project. Since the exercise was challenging, authentic, and multidisciplinary it proved an effective tool to extend formal lectures while also providing a resource for research in the School.

Keywords: SAE Formula, racecar, project base learning, collaboration, research.