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Formula SAE Japan Visit Report - No.2: Yamaguchi Tokyo University of Science “SOCU Formula”

We are supporting the development of the next generation of engineers in Japan by providing our simulation tool to some of the Formula SAE teams.

For more details, please refer to the article.Supports Formula SAE Japan 2025

We recently visited the student Formula team from Yamaguchi Tokyo University of Science.

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Last year, the team achieved an impressive overall ranking of 20th, and this year they are aiming for a spot in the top 10. The students are actively engaged in manufacturing many of the vehicle’s components themselves, passing down skills in machining, turning, and welding. Their spirit of challenge and energetic approach to their activities left a strong impression on us.

The team is guided by their Faculty Advisor, Professor Emeritus Takao Kijima, who previously served as the chief engineer for the development of the Mazda Roadster and RX-7. His philosophy -“Fun for speed, Reliable for fun.”- has become the concept behind this year’s vehicle design.

We toured a warehouse lined with successive cowls and parts, a university facility equipped with large-scale machining tools, and the team’s workshop filled with lathes and welding equipment. During our visit, the team explained their activities and the unique features of their vehicle.

As the welding of this year’s frame and the fabrication of various components were still underway, we had the opportunity to hear detailed stories based on last year’s vehicle. Although the competition imposes certain regulations, the freedom in design made it even more challenging to finalize specifications. Nevertheless, the team members passionately explained each of their design choices, their eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. It was a moment that truly showcased the essence of craftsmanship.

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In the workshop, we saw members gathered around this year’s frame, working diligently toward the goal of getting the vehicle ready for competition. This year’s team leader, Mr. Fujita, shared his thoughts with us: “Our activities may not be the glamorous and fun university life that many students imagine, but I can proudly say that the whole experience of overcoming numerous challenges with limited resources and competing in the Formula SAE is irreplaceable and invaluable.”

It was during a period when they were working on vehicle development policies and also introducing their activities for freshman students and recruiting new members.
Witnessing their efforts to sustain the team beyond just next year made us, as a supporter, feel more responsibility and motivated.
We will continue to support and cheer on the team as they dedicate themselves to their activities with limited resources.

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