11.06.25 Attending Manufacturing Solutions 2025 at TUS Coonagh Campus were, TUS Motorsports, Asher Grant, Nathan Killane, Daniel Gammell and Hugh OGrady. Picture: Alan Place
Motorsport enthusiasts at Technological University of the Shannon are constructing a racing car from the ground up in pursuit of their dream to compete at Silverstone, the iconic UK racetrack that has hosted Formula One legends. The TUS Motorsport team, established less than two years ago, has reached the Concept stage of the Formula Student competition, which features teams from across the globe.
Comprising students from Tipperary, Limerick, Clare, Cork, and Kerry, the team has manufactured key parts at the Coonagh Campus in Limerick, sourced others through sponsorship, and even repurposed an engine from a crashed Honda motorbike. While their car is not yet race-ready, their focus is firmly set on competing in the full Student Formula race within the next 12 months.
The 30-member team spans multiple disciplines, including Mechanical, Precision, Electronic, and Automotive Engineering, as well as International Business, Creative Broadcast, and Film Production. The initiative has been driven by president Nathan Killane and vice-president Darragh O’Grady, who began planning in their first week at TUS.
Supported by €13,000 in research grants from SATLE and N-TUTORR, along with contributions from numerous sponsors, the team has kept costs to under €30,000—far below the budgets of some rival teams. Faculty members and staff across departments have provided technical expertise, tools, and guidance, with lecturer Daniela Butan praising the students’ determination, strategic planning, and multidisciplinary teamwork.
Upon returning for the next semester, the team aims to complete and test the car extensively, with the goal of becoming the first Technological University to race at Silverstone.
Source: Technological University of the Shannon
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