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FIDLOCK Consumer Products
Beyond Screws: The First-Ever Magnetic Fix for Formula Student
Faster pit stops start long before the race
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Formula Student is an international engineering competition in which student teams design, build and race their own formula-style vehicles. Beyond pure driving performance, the competition challenges teams to develop innovative solutions, optimise their engineering processes and prove the reliability of their concepts under real racing conditions.
For the teams, success is not only determined by what happens on the track. Long before the starting line, countless hours are spent designing, testing and refining every detail of the vehicle. During competition weekends, every adjustment, inspection and repair has to be completed quickly and precisely, as efficient workflows can make the difference between collecting valuable data and losing valuable time.
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For Gspeed Racing from Jilin University, improving these processes has always been part of their engineering mindset. Founded in 2009, the team has established itself as one of the most successful Formula Student teams in China, claiming seven overall championships while continuously pushing the boundaries of innovation. Their philosophy, Innovation Boosted, is reflected not only in their race car's performance but also in the small details that make their workflow more efficient.
Innovation Boosted has always been our philosophy. We continuously introduce new technologies that improve both vehicle performance and engineering efficiency.
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Gspeed Racing optimises race car maintenance with innovative fasteners
One recurring challenge became particularly obvious during race weekends. The sidepods and diffuser need to be removed frequently to access the vehicle, perform inspections or make setup changes. Traditionally, these components were secured with screws and locknuts. While this solution was reliable, it slowed down maintenance considerably.
Working in confined spaces made handling the hardware difficult; screws and washers could easily be misplaced, and locknuts required regular replacement.
The team was looking for a solution that would simplify these repetitive tasks without compromising reliability.
We needed a fastening solution that was more convenient and much more efficient.
After evaluating several concepts, the engineers integrated FIDLOCK SNAP fasteners into their race car. Initial prototypes were installed on the 2025 vehicle using 3D-printed adapters so that the existing mounting points remained untouched. Once the concept had proven itself during testing, the fastening points were already incorporated into the design of the 2026 race car.
Dedicated mounting locations allowed the fasteners to be integrated cleanly using standard hardware and structural adhesive, making them part of the vehicle from the very beginning rather than an aftermarket modification.
FIDLOCK SNAP fasteners enable quick and reliable component access
The benefits quickly became apparent during testing and competition. Instead of carrying numerous tools, screws, nuts and washers, team members could access the relevant components within seconds. Maintenance became faster, but also more collaborative, as other groups could remove and inspect the parts without specialised tools or lengthy instructions.
The combination of magnetic guidance and mechanical locking enables intuitive alignment and a secure hold, making FIDLOCK SNAP fasteners particularly suitable for applications where components need to be attached and removed repeatedly while maintaining reliability.
Magnetic fastening technology tested under extreme racing conditions
Most importantly, extensive testing confirmed that the fastening system remained securely locked even under the extreme vibrations experienced on the race track. Reliability, the team's highest priority when selecting components, was never compromised.
Reliability is always our top priority. After thorough testing, we confirmed that the fastener can't open accidentally under race-car vibrations.
For Gspeed Racing, the project ultimately demonstrated that innovation does not always mean reinventing an entire vehicle. Sometimes, improving a seemingly small detail has a measurable impact on the entire workflow. Faster access to components, fewer loose parts and greater efficiency during maintenance allow the team to focus on what really matters: collecting data, refining the car and performing on track. This case is not just about a new fastener; it is a testament to a different way of thinking – one that challenges conventional assumptions and finds solutions in unexpected places.
When asked to describe FIDLOCK in just one word, the answer came without hesitation:
Innovation. Using magnetism for alignment together with a mechanical lock enables quick one-handed operation while ensuring a secure hold. It solves exactly the challenges we face in confined spaces.
Ready to explore new possibilities?
What started as a small change for Gspeed Racing made the maintenance of their race car noticeably more efficient. Perhaps there is a detail in your application that could be rethought, too.
Discover the possibilities of FIDLOCK and order a free sample to experience the technology for yourself.