This course covers how race cars and its technology developed over time. The history will start from the roots with the cars in the first races conducted and will describe the emergence of various types of racing and how cars in each category were optimized. Throughout the course, various important car components will be introduced and discussed in technical detail, such as engines, transmissions, aerodynamics, and vehicle dynamics.

There will be a handful of light assignments scattered through the semester and a short final paper due at the end of the course.

Up to four classes can be missed without impact on the final grade. Any additional absences can be worked out with the instructor.

The 20 available seats are filled on a first come, first served basis. Those who are interested can email Daniel Zu (dzu@berkeley.edu) for a Course Control Number.