November 10, 2008
For Immediate Release
For an Interview:
Todd Low
(801) 863-6434
Since 2006, Utah Valley University’s Department of Automotive Technology has participated in Speed Week, a racing competition on the Bonneville Salt Flats. During one week every August they race a Wolverine-designed el Camino against competitors from across the nation, with a goal to set the land speed record in their performance class - a goal they have met two out of their three years participating.
The idea to participate in Speed Week began in the fall of 2005, when Todd Low, associate professor of automotive technology, and a high performance class taught on UVU’s campus began building and altering a 1969 Chevrolet el Camino. Six to 12 students spent hours studying, designing and changing the car in order for it to perform just right.
By the beginning of August 2006 the car was ready to compete. The class, known as the Wolverine Race Team, packed up their gear and drove the two hours to the salt flats. Five days later they returned victorious, setting their first ever land speed record. Their success repeated itself in 2007, when a revamped version of the Wolverine Camino ran at a top speed of 188 mph.
Given that racing was Low’s idea, he supplied the car. He also is the one who straps on the fire suit and safety gear each race, preparing to take a ride of a lifetime.
When asked about his experience behind the wheel Low laughed, then said, "It’s a Sunday drive, a piece of cake." Later, in a more serious tone he added, "Really when you race, it’s tough. You are paying attention to everything - gages, markers and trying to go as fast as you can. It’s a lot to take in."
Adding to Low’s comments, Chris Williams, a Wolverine Race Team member and automotive technology major, described his experience during each race. "The tires spin so fast and the salt underneath them gets kicked up so high that by the time the car leaves and the salt comes back to the ground it looks like you are in the middle of a snow storm." At least until the reality of being in 80 to 100 degree weather with no hint of shade returns.
For the most recent race in 2008, the team had a goal of 200 mph. According to the calculations of the actual run, it is a goal they should have reached. However, due to friction between the tires and the salt the car maxed out at 194.5, a speed they were satisfied with. Although their new number beat the previous year by close to 7 mph, they did not set any new records.
"We didn’t get the record because the other guys had more money," Williams said.
By ‘the other guys,’ Williams is referring to Hot Rod magazine. Hot Rod came into the event with more money and resources than the new University would ever be able to provide. Their car went an outstanding 225 mph, dominating everyone in the class. UVU participants, however, weren’t discouraged. According to Low, they were all proud that on such a small and limited budget, they accomplished as much as they did. It was another great feat for UVU.
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College Marketing Contact:
Erin Spurgeon
(801) 863-6807
Written by:
Hanna Hopkinson
(801) 863-7205