The development of CRT-02 reflects an engineering approach based on iteration, cost efficiency, and multidisciplinary collaboration. The project involved students from various engineering study programs at ITB.

Development Background and Regulatory Adaptation

CRT-02 was developed through an evaluation process of the previous vehicle and an adjustment to changes in international competition regulations. The team emphasized that the development process was not merely an improvement, but a redesign of the vehicle system.

Muzhaffar Omar Priambodo, Head of Cerberus Racing Team ITB, explained that this approach was influenced by the team’s previous competition experience.

“This is our second car evaluation, CRT-02, which was developed based on the evaluation of CRT-01, the car we competed with in Japan last year.”

In addition to the evaluation factor, regulatory changes became a key driver behind the redesign of the chassis and vehicle systems. As a result, CRT-02 has a structurally different character compared to its predecessor. These changes include adjustments to vehicle dimensions, driver ergonomics, and simplification of aerodynamic components.

Technical Innovation: Student-Built ECU and Efficient Aerodynamic Design

CRT-02 introduces several technical innovations independently developed by students. One of them is a student-built Electronic Control Unit, or ECU, designed to optimize engine performance at a more efficient cost compared to commercial systems.

The aerodynamic approach was also significantly simplified. Several components, such as the front wing and rear wing, were removed and replaced with an alternative design approach using a sharp rear fin.

In terms of innovation, the team also developed a personalized steering system and used more varied carbon composite materials to balance structural strength and weight efficiency.

Omar emphasized that limitations encouraged the team to pursue technical innovation.

“We use our own ECU because commercial ECUs are generally quite expensive, and we want to reduce costs.”

This approach shows how limited resources can encourage students to explore more creative and contextual engineering solutions.

Development Process

The CRT-02 development process involved digital design, fabrication, and gradual integration of vehicle systems by several technical divisions.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration and Future Development Direction

The development of CRT-02 involved cross-disciplinary collaboration among students from mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, industrial engineering, product design, and other related fields. Support from lecturers, ITB laboratories, and industry partners also strengthened the vehicle engineering process.

The team used facilities such as makerspaces, production engineering laboratories, and vendor support for the fabrication of certain components. This collaboration created a project-based learning ecosystem that connects academic knowledge with industrial practice.

For future development, CRT-02 is planned to be continuously used and improved through iterative cycles. The vehicle may also be used in more than one international competition.

Omar highlighted the importance of continuous learning in team development.

“We want this car to continue developing and to be used again for future competitions, with continuous improvements based on testing results.”

During the launch at ITB’s Aula Barat, the Rector of ITB also delivered a message on the importance of process and consistency in innovation.

“Do not stop innovating and enjoy the process. The most important thing is to continue developing.”

Through an iterative approach, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and innovation driven by limitations, CRT-02 is not only a competition vehicle. It also represents modern engineering learning at ITB, which continues to adapt to global technological challenges.

Reporter: Merryta Kusumawati (Geodesy and Geomatics Engineering, 2025)