Free State engineering students win Sasol Baja SAE

The Sasol Baja SAE – an annual partnership between Sasol, Gerotek, technical competition specialists ESTEQ and engine suppliers, Briggs and Stratton – allows engineering faculties of tertiary institutions to showcase their science and technological expertise in producing a Baja vehicle that will not only impress the judging panel, but also master the treacherous Gerotek circuit.

Following various performance gradings including braking systems, acceleration, gradient ability, gymkhana and torque testing, followed by the 4-hour endurance race, the Free State students totalled 788.041 points to take the overall title. Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (733.57) and Tuks 2 (712.201) finished second and third respectively.

Out on the tough, muddy, Gerotek circuit, the 4-hour endurance race took its toll on many a baja with the pits areas having the mechanics working throughout the afternoon. But at the end of the day, it was the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) team who watched with pride as their Baja was the first vehicle over the finish line. The TUT baja also produced the fastest lap time of of the day, clocking 3 min 7 secs over the 2km circuit.

Tuks 2 claimed the honours for the Best Designed Baja, while the University of KwaZulu Natal were awarded the prize for the best acceleration. TUT took the prize in the hill climb competition.