Universit� degli studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia

Unimore unveils new electric racing motorcycle prototype by Impulse Modena Racing

The University of Modena and Reggio Emilia officially presented the Racing Thunder 4-E at the Randstad Gearbox in San Giovanni in Persiceto (Bologna). This fourth prototype created by the IMR team is the result of two years of work and introduces major advances compared with earlier models: extensive use of carbon fibre in the frame and other structural components such as the rear swingarm; an innovative aerodynamic system with an electric turbine designed to reduce drag; and advanced electronic powertrain management. A true concentration of research and engineering, the project has given students the chance to work with cutting-edge design tools and tackle highly complex technical challenges.

The Racing Thunder 4-E will officially debut this October at the MotorLand Aragón circuit in Spain, during the eighth MotoStudent International Competition—the world’s leading inter-university contest for electric motorcycles, with over a hundred university teams from across the globe. The event includes static tests, assessing the design and technologies employed, and dynamic tests, covering handling, acceleration, and a full race, scheduled for Sunday 19 October . Over the years, Impulse Modena Racing has already achieved significant results, including the Best Innovation award at MotoStudent 2021.

“For many years now, the Department has promoted student participation in MotoStudent and Formula Student initiatives, recognising their passion, skills, and commitment—also through the awarding of academic credits. Passion, expertise and energy are the pillars of their professional future, which we know will be brilliant and full of opportunities. Many of the most prestigious motorsport companies, in fact, look for graduates who not only have a solid academic background but who have also gained hands-on experience in ‘learning by doing’ teams,” said Professor Francesco Leali, Director of the “Enzo Ferrari” Department of Engineering. “The Department also owes great thanks to the lecturers, technical and administrative staff, and the sponsors who, through their work and support, enable these remarkable young people to pursue their dream of becoming the future of the Motor Valley.”

“Impulse Modena Racing is an extraordinary opportunity for our students: it allows them to apply what they learn in the classroom, work as a team, and take on challenges similar to those they will face in their careers,” added Faculty Advisor Professor Carlo Alberto Rinaldini. “Over the past two years they have carried out intense, high-quality work, using advanced design tools, tackling complex problems, and optimising every aspect of the project. The Racing Thunder 4-E marks a significant step forward compared to the previous prototypes and demonstrates the excellent technological level achieved by the team. The October event in Aragón will provide yet another valuable experience: it will test not only the bike but also the team’s ability to manage competition and face the challenges of racing in practice.”

“The Racing Thunder 4-E is the result of the hard work of more than 80 students. Its quality and innovative spirit come from the skills and dedication of every member of the team,” concluded Team Leader Alberto Leonardi. “The prototype combines structural lightness with innovative aerodynamic solutions, representing a clear step forward compared to our previous models. We are ready to face the October race with determination and drive. I would like to thank our sponsors, partners, and all those who support us and make this project possible.”

Founded in 2016 within the “Enzo Ferrari” Department of Engineering in Modena, Impulse Modena Racing aims to design and build electric racing motorcycles for national and international student competitions, following the regulations of the MotoStudent International Competition organised by the Moto Engineering Foundation.

The team is made up of students from various Unimore departments: primarily Engineering, but also Economics, Communication and other disciplines, underlining the project’s interdisciplinary nature. The organisation mirrors that of a professional racing team, with divisions dedicated to specific areas such as aerodynamics, structures, electronics, powertrain, vehicle dynamics, management and communications. Each division is supervised by an academic advisor who provides specialist expertise, design tools and access to laboratories. In this way, the project serves not only as a technical test bed but also as a complete educational pathway, combining academic teaching with practical experience and preparing students for the challenges of the workplace and industrial innovation.

The project is supported by the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, the Fondazione di Modena, and numerous corporate sponsors, who have contributed materials, components, mechanical work and technical know-how. It is a highly educational experience that enables students to develop not only technical skills but also transferable ones such as teamwork, time and resource management, leadership and the ability to engage with the industrial world.

Categorie: International - english, Notizie_eng