Chalmers Ford Partners With The UNM FSAE Electric Car Team

About LOBOmotorsports – UNM’s Formula SAE Electric Car Team 

The UNM LOBOmotorsports team is a powerhouse of innovation and teamwork. Comprising over 40 students from mechanical, electrical, computer engineering, and computer science disciplines, this dynamic group designs, builds, tests, and races a fully electric, Formula-style racecar from the ground up. 

Each June, the team competes internationally at the Formula SAE Electric competition, showcasing their skills in one of the most advanced student engineering contests in the world. 

Chalmers Ford’s Role in Supporting Innovation 

As a community-first Rio Rancho Ford dealership, Chalmers Ford is committed to investing in programs that prepare students for real-world careers and sustainable technologies. We provide vital resources, sponsorship, and mentorship to help these young innovators bring their designs to life. 

“Chalmers Ford’s support helps bridge the gap between academic theory and hands-on innovation,” said Dr. John Russell, Director of LOBOmotorsports and Professor of Mechanical Engineering at UNM. “Their partnership gives our students both essential tools and a professional connection to the automotive industry. That’s incredibly meaningful.” 

Real Impact on Engineering Students 

The 2023–2024 team made history by reaching multiple firsts for UNM’s electric vehicle program: 

• 🔧 First inclusion of computer science students 

• 🔌 First EV built and running before competition 

• ✅ First to pass all technical inspections 

• 🏁 First to compete in a dynamic event on the track 

These achievements signal a major leap forward for student-led EV engineering in New Mexico. 

The upcoming 2024–2025 team is even stronger, boasting the largest post-pandemic roster and deeper interdisciplinary collaboration than ever before. 

A Front-Row Look at Innovation: From the Chalmers Ford Team 

It’s not just about sponsorship—it’s about showing up and staying involved. 

“I had the chance to visit UNM's engineering college and see firsthand the amazing work happening at LOBOmotorsports,” said Andy Strebe, General Manager at Chalmers Ford. “Their passion and precision are inspiring, and Chalmers Ford is proud to support them as they race toward the future. Let’s keep fueling local innovation.” 

Quotes like this from our leadership show that our support is more than symbolic—it’s active, engaged, and future-focused. 

Join Us in Driving the Future Forward 

At Chalmers Ford, we’re not just selling vehicles—we’re investing in the future of electric mobility, education, and community. From sponsoring local events to backing future-forward programs like LOBOmotorsports, we’re here to fuel progress—locally and sustainably. 

📍 Visit us in Rio Rancho, NM to learn more about how we’re supporting bold ideas and the next generation of EV leaders. 

🔗 Learn more about the team: UNM FSAE Website 
📸 Follow the journey: @lobomotorsports on Instagram 

Chalmers Ford – Real People. Real Value. Real Simple.