A deep dive into India’s Deeptech Future
Formula Bharat 2026, India’s premier collegiate motorsport challenge, saw an unprecedented victory by Camber Racing from SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST).
They achieved an undisputed National Championship title by sweeping all major dynamic and static categories. This victory is significant as Formula Bharat serves as a crucial proving ground for engineers and a fertile ecosystem for India’s deeptech startups, with companies like Ather Energy and Exponent Energy having roots in the competition.
Camber Racing’s Unprecedented Triumph
Camber Racing’s victory was characterized by engineering brilliance, strategic execution, and teamwork, securing top honors in a total sweep of the dynamic and static field.
The Clean Sweep Record
- 1st Place in Endurance
- 1st Place in Skidpad
- 1st Place in Autocross
- 1st Place in Acceleration
- 1st Place in Engineering Design
- 1st Place in Fuel Economy
- 1st Place in Sustainability
- Best Driver Award
The winning team’s leadership included Himanshu Kumar (Captain), Aryan Sampath Nair (Vice Captain), Shashank Reddy (Technical Director), Rohit Ramesh (Project Manager), and T. M. Sakthiprasad (Chief Race Driver).
“Building people, not just cars!” — The Camber Racing motto since September 2009.
Established in 2009, Camber Racing operates with specialized verticals including powertrain, vehicle dynamics, chassis, electronics, and branding. Their history of success includes being two-time National Champions at SUPRA SAEINDIA and representing India at Formula Student Germany (FSG).
Rigorous Testing: The Survival of the Fittest
The six-day event involves stringent evaluations. In 2026, 53 teams participated, but many did not clear the initial hurdles. The process is divided into Static and Dynamic tests.
Static Tests (325 Points)
These tests scrutinize design, cost-effectiveness, and business viability. Mandatory technical inspections include the Tilt Test for stability, the Rain Test for moisture protection, Noise Test, and the Brake Test.
Event 01
Engineering Design
150 points for combustion and electric vehicles, evaluating student-driven innovation.
Event 02
Cost & Manufacturing
Assesses the balance between innovation and mass-production practicality.
Event 03
Business Plan Presentation (BPP)
Teams pitch their vehicle as a profitable business opportunity to potential investors.
Note: A significant number of the 53 participating teams did not pass these static tests, highlighting the difficulty of the competition.
Dynamic Tests: Pushing Performance
For teams passing static tests, dynamic events assess on-track performance. Out of 53 initial entrants, only 12 advanced to the endurance test, and just 3 completed it.
- Acceleration: Measures raw power over a straight line.
- Skid-Pad: Evaluates lateral grip and cornering ability.
- Autocross: Assesses handling over a winding course with straights up to 80m.
- Endurance: The ultimate 22km test of durability and reliability.
The Elite Finishers (Endurance)
Only three teams conquered the 2026 endurance test:
1. Camber Racing (SRMIST)Champions
2. Bullz Racing (BMSCE)Finisher
3. TAS Ikshvaku Racing (NIE Mysuru)Finisher
A Deeptech Startup Incubator
Formula Bharat is more than a race; it’s a launchpad for India’s technological future. Many notable startups have emerged from this ecosystem.
Ather Energy
A pioneer in electric two-wheelers, Ather sponsors awards and views the competition as its prime talent pool.
Exponent Energy
Focused on 15-minute rapid charging. Their core values (“Break. Believe. Build.”) originated in student competitions.
Baaz Bikes
An electric mobility platform for gig workers, founded by IIT Delhi alumni from Axlr8r Formula Racing.
Blinq Mobility & Coratia Technologies
Teams transitioning skills from track racing to underwater robotics and innovative EV leadership.
Camber Racing’s dominant win at Formula Bharat 2026 is a significant achievement, showcasing years of dedication and bringing prestige to SRMIST. The competition’s role as a launchpad for deeptech ventures highlights its profound impact on India’s future technological landscape.
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