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Developed in Mauá, SP, the FADIM K2, prototype of the most economical vehicle in Brazil, overcomes technical challenges and points to innovations for sustainable mobility in the country
The city of Mauá, São Paulo, was the stage for the development of one of the most efficient vehicles ever recorded in Brazil. In 2009, a group of engineers and academics led by Leone Maurício Fragassi presented the FADIM K2, a project that earned the title of the most economical vehicle prototype in Brazil, reaching the impressive mark of 113.4 km per liter of gasoline. The development stood out not only for its reduced consumption but also for its innovative approach focused on sustainable mobility.
Origin and Development of the Project
The most economical vehicle prototype in Brazil, the FADIM K2, was born out of an academic and business initiative aimed at encouraging the creation of highly efficient vehicles. The development of the model was supported by the company Projeto de Comunicação, alongside the participation of engineering professors and students. The goal was to enable a university competition inspired by the Shell Eco-Marathon, one of the most renowned energy efficiency contests in the world.
The vehicle tests were conducted at the testing ground of GM Brazil, in Indaiatuba (SP), where the prototype faced rigorous technical challenges. The team had to deal with budget constraints and optimize the car’s aerodynamics to maximize fuel consumption efficiency. According to Fragassi, the project required meticulous planning and creative solutions to overcome the limitations imposed by the competition’s regulations.
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Technical Specifications and Performance
The FADIM K2, recognized as the most economical vehicle prototype in Brazil, was designed to be lightweight and aerodynamic, with a structure made of aluminum, carbon steel, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and acrylic. Its 70cc single-cylinder gasoline engine, air-cooled, was optimized to reduce consumption to the minimum necessary.
During testing, the vehicle maintained an average speed of 35 km/h, but its recorded maximum speed was 70 km/h. The fuel consumption measurement was conducted precisely: each team received 200 ml of gasoline, and the vehicle covered a distance of 10 km on a paved and level track. The remaining fuel was weighed to calculate the actual consumption.
Impact and Innovations in Sustainable Mobility
The success of the most economical vehicle prototype in Brazil spurred new research and investments in the field of sustainable mobility. Leone Fragassi, after the project, dedicated himself to the study and development of Velomobiles, highly efficient individual vehicles widely used in Europe. The engineer believes that this type of technology has the potential to revolutionize urban transport in Brazil.
Fragassi emphasizes that the evolution of materials and technologies, such as nanotechnology and carbon fibers, is transforming the automotive sector. According to him, Velomobiles represent a viable solution to reduce the environmental impact of urban travel, following models already adopted in countries like the Netherlands, France, and Denmark.
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