Student SAE Japan returned in 2025 as a major platform for developing Japan’s next generation of automotive engineers. The collegiate competition brought together university teams to design, build, and race small formula-style cars. The event highlighted how practical engineering experience continues to strengthen Japan’s automotive sector.
Organizers held the competition in September at the Aichi International Exhibition Center in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture. Eighty-three teams from Japan and overseas participated in internal combustion and electric vehicle classes. Judges emphasized safety while also scoring speed, design efficiency, and overall vehicle performance.
The competition originated in the United States more than forty years ago. The Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan introduced the program domestically in 2003. Since then, the event has supported industry-oriented education by linking students with private companies and technical partners.
Teams followed a multi-stage evaluation process before racing. They first submitted test drive footage and technical data for approval. Officials then reviewed cost analysis and design logic during static inspections. Dynamic testing followed, where cars competed on track and accumulated points.
Around 2,500 students participated in the 2025 event. Kobe University’s internal combustion vehicle team drew attention due to its strong history. The team included more than 40 members, including senior student driver Takumi Muroya. Kobe University previously won the competition in 2021.
The team began vehicle development early in 2025 to improve competitiveness. Members aimed to return to the top after placing third last year. They started test driving in April to refine handling and reliability. Seventy-one companies and organizations supported the project.
Engineers designed the car with a low center of gravity for better cornering stability. They used a four-cylinder engine and added a rear wing. Despite strong expectations, inspections created unexpected challenges. Noise level failures delayed track access for several days.
The team modified the muffler to meet regulations despite reduced engine power. Officials approved the car on the fifth inspection attempt. Endurance racing followed on a one-kilometer circuit. The vehicle stalled on the final lap and could not restart.
Kobe University finished twenty-second overall after retiring from the endurance run. Muroya said the team would dismantle the car to identify the mechanical issue. He emphasized that analysis remains essential for designing future vehicles.
International teams from China and Thailand delivered strong performances. Kyoto Institute of Technology won the internal combustion category again. Nagoya University claimed first place in the electric vehicle division. Student SAE Japan continued to show growing global competitiveness.
Professor Takashi Tsuchiya served on the event’s management committee. He said the competition offers rare hands-on experience. He noted that students learn critical lessons through failure and redesign. Student SAE Japan remains a vital training ground for future automotive engineers.
