Interview with Team Defianz Racing: Ambitions to Develop India’s First Fully Functional Driverless Vehicle

Team Defianz Racing, established in 2003, is a pioneering Formula Student team in Asia. Comprising 40 members, this racing team specializes in designing and manufacturing advanced formula cars annually through rigorous research and development. Originally they were in the combustion vehicle category, now they have successfully transitioned to the Electric Driverless category.

Their achievements include impressive wins at prestigious events like FSAE Italy 2022, FS Czech Republic 2023, and Formula Bharat 2024, where they have consistently garnered awards, demonstrating their progress and innovation in vehicle design.

Their goal for the near future is to compete in the Formula Student Electric category at Formula Bharat 2025 and the Formula Student Driverless category at Formula Student Germany 2025. Also, their ambitious goal is to be the first team in India to develop a fully functional driverless vehicle, showcasing their commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology and innovation.

We at YouthIncorporated recently connected with the dynamic team of Team Defianz Racing, engaging them in an insightful interview about their aspirations, early challenges, and journey. Here’s what the team shared with us:

1. How did you come up with the Team Defianz Racing and how did the journey begin?

The genesis of Team Defianz Racing can be traced back to the early 2000s at Delhi Technological University. A shared fascination with motorsports and the world of Formula SAE (FSAE) united some passionate engineering students. Fueled by this collective ambition, they embarked on a rigorous research phase, laying the groundwork for a student-led racing team. 

The journey was anything but easy. Initial limitations, such as the lack of readily available support from college professors or peers, posed significant challenges. However, these obstacles only strengthened their resolve. Their nights were filled with blueprints and their days with relentless problem-solving. By 2003, their dedication and hard work culminated in the official formation of the Team Defianz Racing, a name chosen to reflect their spirited defiance of limitations. Their dream took shape in the form of a formula-style student car, symbolizing not just a vehicle, but the embodiment of their determination and passion.

2. Please tell us about your work in designing and manufacturing advanced formula cars from scratch?

Team Defianz Racing’s car design and manufacturing process is driven by precision and passion. Here are the key steps:

1. Virtual Design and Simulation: Using CAD software, we design every component of the race car, optimizing weight distribution, aerodynamics, and performance. MATLAB simulations ensure practical and robust designs.

2. Prototype Development and Manufacturing: After finalizing the design, we fabricate the chassis and other critical components with high-performance materials and cutting-edge techniques.

3. Assembly and Integration: We meticulously assemble the car, ensuring seamless integration of all elements for optimal performance.

4. Bodywork and Finishing Touches: The aerodynamic bodywork, often crafted from carbon fiber, is added. Essential systems are installed, and safety regulations are met, bringing the car to life.

Each step in this process is about engineering excellence and the relentless pursuit of innovation and perfection. It’s a journey of turning dreams into reality, fueled by the collective passion of a team committed to pushing the boundaries of motorsports.

3. What inspired your team to pursue this goal of becoming India’s first fully functional driverless vehicle, and what steps are you taking to achieve this milestone?

Our journey to become India’s first fully functional driverless vehicle team began with transformative experiences at international competitions, where we witnessed impressive driverless vehicles. This exposure highlighted a significant gap in the Indian motorsport scene and fueled our determination to be the first to achieve this milestone.

Our initial step was to gain experience through the Intelligent Ground Vehicle Competition (IGVC), which provided invaluable insights into autonomous vehicle technology. Winning accolades at IGVC boosted our confidence, and we then shifted our focus to the more challenging Formula Student Driverless category.

With budget constraints, we adopted a phased approach, making incremental progress each year. This involved procuring essential components and conducting in-depth research. Our first major acquisition was a 2D LiDAR, which enabled us to develop a basic autonomous pipeline. We studied research papers from established teams to refine our approach.

Currently, we plan to acquire a 3D LiDAR and a stereo camera to enhance our vehicle’s perception capabilities. Each step brings us closer to our dream, driven by passion, innovation, and a resolve to make history in Indian motorsport.

4. What are the ways in which you promote awareness about motorsports?

At Team Defianz Racing, we passionately promote motorsports awareness through various dynamic initiatives. Our active social media presence is central to our strategy. With 3K followers on Instagram and 2K on LinkedIn, we regularly share our journey, achievements, and behind-the-scenes moments, connecting with a broad and engaged audience of motorsports enthusiasts.

We organize workshops, seminars, and participate in public events, exhibitions, and auto shows to bring the excitement of motorsports to students and the public. A highlight was being awarded “Best Academia 2023” at the India Mobile Congress, showcasing our commitment and impact. 

Collaboration is key. We partner with industry leaders, sponsors, and media outlets to share our achievements and foster a wider appreciation for motorsports. Our participation in national and international competitions, such as Formula Bharat, Formula Student Italy, and Formula Student Germany, highlights our skills and passion on a global stage.

To keep our supporters informed, we publish monthly newsletters with team updates, knowledge, and innovations. These newsletters offer a deeper understanding of our dedication and hard work.

Driven by a love for motorsports, we aim to inspire others to join this exhilarating field through digital engagement, public events, and strategic collaborations.

5. What were some of the challenges you and your team encountered? And how did you overcome it?

At Team Defianz Racing of Delhi Technological University, we faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted our operations and made securing sponsorships difficult. Despite this, we adapted by leveraging virtual tools and innovative methods, demonstrating resilience and creativity.

To overcome funding hurdles, we developed a comprehensive sponsorship strategy, conducted effective outreach, and maintained strong relationships with sponsors, securing necessary financial support and industry connections.

Balancing academics and team responsibilities is another challenge. Our students manage rigorous coursework while developing high-performance vehicles, supported by a collaborative environment and efficient task division.

Technical issues were resolved through rigorous testing, iterative improvements, and open communication. Logistical challenges were managed with project management tools, ensuring timely progress.

Through resilience, teamwork, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, we navigated these challenges and emerged stronger, enhancing our skills and preparing for future endeavors in motorsports. Each setback strengthened our resolve, and every challenge brought us closer to achieving our dreams.

6. What are your future goals and aspirations for the team?

Having successfully transitioned from the combustion vehicle category to the electric category, we have achieved notable successes at FSAE Italy 2022, FS Czech Republic 2023, and Formula Bharat 2024. Each victory is a testament to our team’s dedication, ingenuity, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Looking ahead, Team Defianz Racing is thrilled to announce our qualification for Formula Bharat 2025. Energized by our solid foundation and the unwavering support of our esteemed sponsors, we are driven by an unending hunger for innovation and the pursuit of pushing boundaries. 

Our future goal is to compete in the Formula Student Driverless category at Formula Student Germany 2025. We aspire to become the first team in India with a fully functional driverless vehicle, setting a new benchmark in Indian motorsports. This ambition aims to inspire a new generation of engineers and innovators, proving that with passion, hard work, and the right support, even the loftiest dreams can be achieved.