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Project Description

For our senior mechanical engineering capstone design class we are a participating group in the Urban Concept Vehicle project. Our duty for this project is to create a rigid frame as well as functional suspension system for a car which would be used in an urban setting. The end result of this entire project will be a vehicle designed for maximum energy efficiency at an urban setting.


The team will be referred to as Suspension Preventing Against Terrain (SPAT). The frame must provide ample area for the driver interface as well as providing structural support and connections for the cowling, which are both designed by the ergonomics team. The front geometry of the chassis and suspension must also allow for steering and braking connections. The dimensions of the chassis will provide the designation between the driver interface and the drive train’s motor compartment. Overall, the chassis is the foundation of the project and must be completed accurately to ensure the success of the total vehicle.


This vehicle, when completed, will be entered into the Shell Eco-marathon competition to test the value, efficiency, and performance. After competitions this vehicle will demonstrate to others involved with the NAU engineering program, or those who are interested in the program the skills and abilities of the NAU engineering department.


Our team will be making a truss type chassis frame with thin wall aluminum tubing. For the front suspension we will be using an A-arm style suspension. While for the back we will be using a trailing arm/linkage style suspension.


Needs for this project include:
  1. A light weight, rigid frame.
  2. Light weight suspension capable of preforming on many road conditions.
  3. Suspension must absorb varying road conditions and provide a comfortable ride.
  4. Ability to easily be integrated with other systems of the Urban car.
  5. Comply with Shell Eco-marathon’s competition regulations of safety and size.

Specification for this vehicle are:
  1. Height between 39 and 51 inches
  2. Length between 87 and 137 inches
  3. Width between 47 and 51 inches
  4. Front track width above 39 inches
  5. Rear track width above 31 inches
  6. Wheelbase above 47 inches
  7. Roll bar that withstands 700N in any direction
  8. Ground clearance above 4 inches
  9. Towing hook with 2000N capacity