2018 - 2019
The 2019 Red Lion Racing team focused on improving on previous years’ designs, with the exception of a newly designed frame. The frame switched from a front-bracing to a ‘nose’ style, reducing the weight of the frame by approximately 14%. The powertrain section comprised of a CVT and Schafer H12 FNR Locked gearbox to allow for forward, neutral, and reverse shifting and the driver control system switched to a top mounted pedal assembly with outboard brakes. Additionally, the suspension section improved on the previous three-link rear suspension design and incorporated custom Elka coilovers. To improve ergonomics, a u-joint was integrated into the steering column.
The 2019 team attended the International SAE competition in Rochester, NY, placing 54th out of 96 teams. The team passed technical inspection on the first dynamic competition day and was able to compete in all dynamic events. UMSAE Baja achieved a team best in the competition endurance race, completing 38 laps and receiving 19th place.
2017 - 2018
The 2018 Baja vehicle had many major changes compared to that of the previous year. Such changes include the powertrain section adopting the Polaris Outlaw spool, the diver controls section switching from top to bottom mounted controls and the suspension section completely redesigned the rear suspension, changing from a torsional trailing arm suspension geometry to a 3-link geometry.
Despite efforts, the 2018 Baja team did not attend the SAE competition in Portland Oregon. The team failed to meet the minimum testing requirements prior to the departure for the competition. From this experience, the team decided to simplify the goals for annual designs and focus on the key components of a successful off-road vehicle.
2016 - 2017
The 2017 vehicle maintained similar front suspension, frame and body designs from previous years, with a double A-arm front suspension geometry, a front-braced frame style and carbon fiber body panels. The suspension section developed a new torsional trailing A-Arm rear suspension design, including custom uprights, for improved control over tire motion. The driver controls section incorporated outboard front brakes and a single inboard rear braking system and the powertrain section designed and manufactured a custom, forward-only gearbox.
The team competed in Peoria, Illinois, in June of 2017 and placed 57th overall out of 99 teams. Red Lion Racing completed all competition events and achieved a new team best for the sales presentation, obtaining 46.25 points and placing within the top 10.