The TU Brno Racing team prepared an unexpected surprise for guests attending the ceremonial unveiling of the Dragon e6 student formula car. The students had tuned the new monopost so successfully that it was able to demonstrate not only its striking design, but also its driving capabilities. The rollout took place on Friday, 15 May, at the Brno Exhibition Centre.
A festive atmosphere welcomed every guest upon entering Pavilion A, where students unveiled the sixteenth formula car developed by the TU Brno Racing team. One distinctive feature of this year’s rollout was that the event did not focus solely on the formula car itself — other BUT student teams also had the opportunity to present their work to sponsors, academic staff, and the students’ families and friends.
The event was hosted by Michal Michalec, researcher and lecturer at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, BUT. “I see these students from my office every day, and believe me, they have worked incredibly hard to be standing here today,” Michalec said in his opening remarks. BUT Rector Ladislav Janíček and FME Dean Jiří Hlinka highlighted the importance of student involvement in team-based projects, which allow them to develop a wide range of skills and improve their career prospects after graduation.
After the opening speeches, team leader Anna Piárová and the heads of individual sections introduced the team’s ambitions and explained the concepts behind specific parts of the car. A recording of the rollout is available on the TU Brno Racing YouTube channel.
Auction for a Good Cause
The rollout featured not one but two memorable finales. The first was an auction of four unique items, with proceeds donated to the Emil Foundation Fund. The auction of a watch, a painting, a technical drawing signed by team members, and a conference table raised an impressive CZK 24,000. “I was very pleased that the students chose us themselves. The proceeds will support Oli, the young boy who is the face of our current campaign,” said Pavel Zbožínek, representative of the foundation, during the rollout.
Another unforgettable moment for all attendees was the demonstration drive of the Dragon e6. Formula cars are usually presented at rollouts before they are fully ready for testing and competition. With this exceptional showcase, the team wanted to thank everyone who supports them — their families, partners, friends, lecturers, and sponsors alike.
A press release containing the technical specifications of the car, along with information on why this model earned the nickname “the formula car from a container,” can be found here.