Cardiff University’s Formula Student team, Cardiff Racing, has taken a significant step forward in its push toward electric racing with the addition of a custom-built battery testing and storage unit. The bespoke container, designed and supplied by S Jones Containers, enhances the safety and efficiency of the team’s operations as it transitions to electric-powered vehicles.
The container serves as a secure hub for storing and charging batteries used by the award-winning student racing team, which draws talent from across the university’s School of Engineering. Cardiff Racing competes annually in the prestigious Formula Student (FSUK) competition, where teams design, build, and race single-seater vehicles. Notably, Cardiff Racing became the first British team to clinch the FSUK title in 2017. With their sights set on mastering electric race cars, battery safety is now a top priority.
Safety-First Engineering
Given the container’s placement on the university’s bustling city center campus, safety was central to its design. S Jones Containers’ specialist Conversions Division outfitted the unit with fire-rated materials to provide 60 minutes of fire resistance. Additional features include a powerful 5KW HVAC system to maintain optimal temperatures, three-phase electrical systems with surge protection, and an external isolator for added security.
The unit also boasts a robust steel fire-rated door and is secured with S Jones Containers’ patented Contain-A-Lock® system, which is tamper-proof and corrosion-resistant. A dark olive green finish helps the container blend seamlessly into its surroundings. The entire project—from design to delivery—was completed within four weeks at S Jones Containers’ West Midlands facility.
A Proven Partnership
This isn’t the first time Cardiff University has partnered with S Jones Containers. The company previously supplied a specialist battery storage unit for a research project at the university’s Centre of Research into Energy, Waste, and Environment.
Anthony James, Space Manager at Cardiff University’s School of Engineering, praised the collaboration: “The design and finish of the container are exceptional, and the service we received was outstanding. This unit will enable us to continue our racing success in a safe and efficient environment.”
Andrew Nicholls, Conversions General Manager at S Jones Containers, highlighted the broader impact of the project: “Our battery testing and storage units are developed in consultation with Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and battery manufacturers to ensure maximum safety. It’s rewarding to support leading research teams in advancing next-generation battery technology with bespoke, secure solutions.”
For more information about S Jones Containers’ specialist storage solutions, visit www.sjonescontainers.co.uk.