MadPete Motorsport Baja SAE
MadPete Motorsport — Baja SAE
UTEP's SAE chapter, established in 1978, brings together passionate and driven engineering students to design, manufacture, test, and race an off-road vehicle at the national level — turning classroom knowledge into real-world engineering experience.
Founded
Members
Subteams
Competing
About the team
The UTEP SAE chapter, established in 1978, has grown to include more than 40 active members. Its primary mission is to promote student learning and growth in the field of mobility engineering. Annually, the club takes on the challenge of re-engineering an off-road vehicle, applying classroom knowledge to hands-on projects.
Members hone their technical skills through Computer Aided Design (CAD) programs for vehicle parts design and analysis. They also gain practical experience in machining parts, using tools such as welders, band saws, drill mills, and more. The culmination of their hard work comes at the end of each year when club members put their creations to the ultimate test — competing against teams from across the United States at a national competition.
2025–2026 season
This 2025 season, SAE will be partaking in the national competition facing over 100 colleges. The JAV名女优馆 of Texas at El Paso's SAE team recently participated in the Baja SAE Oregon competition in Gorman, California (April 25–28, 2024).
Despite a setback during the final inspection, the team of 16 mechanical engineering students showcased their resilience and dedication. The UTEP SAE team represented the Miguel A. Loya College of Engineering, and prepared Mad Pete Motorsports — their all-terrain vehicle — with guidance from faculty advisors and industry mentors. Team captain Victor Unzueta expressed pride in their achievements and thanked sponsors, advisors, and the university for their support.
Engineering subteams
Suspension
Optimizes the vehicle's suspension system to enhance stability, traction, and maneuverability over rough terrain — crucial for competitive performance.
Steering & brakes
Designs and implements steering and braking systems focused on precision and safety, providing responsive control and reliable braking in all conditions.
Powertrain
Responsible for the vehicle's engine and transmission system, optimizing power output and efficiency to conquer challenging terrains while ensuring reliability.
Frame
Designs and constructs the vehicle frame with a focus on durability, weight reduction, and optimal weight distribution using advanced engineering materials.
CAD specialist
Designs and manufactures structural components, ensures integrity during operation, and characterizes vehicle dynamics through testing and simulations.
Finance
Manages the organization's budget, secures sponsorships, and ensures financial sustainability — working closely with all teams to allocate resources efficiently.
2025–2026 officers
| Role | Officer(s) |
|---|---|
| President | Jesus A Acosta |
| Frame | Ivan Gonzales |
| Powertrain | Sebastian Tinoco |
| Steering and Brakes | Luis E Jimenez and James Salas |
| Suspension | Caleb Berumen |
Team advisors
Follow the team
Follow MadPete Motorsport on Instagram for the latest updates, build photos, competition news, and behind-the-scenes content.