Coördinator: dr. A.R. Savkoor.
Professor Vehicle Engineering: prof.dr.ir. J.P. Pauwelussen
Professor Rail Vehicles: prof.ir. C.P. Keizer

The Vehicle Engineering section occupies itself with the technology of the controlled transfer of people and goods by means of vehicles (road and rail vehicles). Besides strength-technical requirements, the following factors are of importance in this: road safety, interaction between vehicle properties and road design, vibration comfort and protection of passengers and cargo, energy consumption, speed and efficiency, control and conductivity properties. Mechatronics takes up an important place in this field of research.

The multitude and diversity of the problems in this field are reflected in the research activities. Attention is being paid to fundamental scientific research as well as to the development of new constructions. Research projects change regularly as a result of technical innovations and social needs.

Contacts with the public sector, research institutes, transport companies and the vehicle industry result in cooperation and social service, both on a national and an international level. In the laboratory one can find knowledge, experience and (in many cases unique) equipment in order to carry out high-level scientific research within this theme. Important within this framework is the growing cooperation with the "Instituut voor Wegtransportmiddelen IW-TNO" (Institute for Means of Road Transport, IW-TNO).

By means of the lectures on this main subject, students become familiar with the technology of road and rail vehicles, the dynamic behaviour of vehicles and the methods necessary to be able to research the dynamics of technical systems. The first individual assignment of limited scope is followed by practical work and then by a final assignment that usually falls within the framework of the section's research programme. Sometimes the final assignment is carried out in industry. One can opt for completing one=s studies in Road Vehicle Engineering (Pacejka) or Rail Vehicle Engineering (Keizer).

In order to encourage the exchange of information on the current research, academic seminars are being held on a regular basis. The Vehicle Engineering Debating Society organizes excursions to industry at home and abroad. This broadens ones's knowledge and reinforces the bonds between students and staff members. Within this main subject, it is possible to opt for the Mechatronics specialization. The curriculum is drawn up in consultation with one's supervising professor.