Automotive Mechatronics MSc

Cranfield University

Vehicles are no longer purely mechanical machines they are complex electromechanical systems, driven by thousands of lines of software and designed using advanced tools and methodologies. From developing electric drivetrains that maximise energy efficiency, to designing active aerodynamic systems for high-end and hypercar applications, developing vehicles for clean-energy racing series, or creating advanced driver assistance systems for off-road applications, today’s automotive engineer must operate confidently across multiple engineering disciplines. The Automotive Mechatronics course is designed to prepare engineers for this new reality. It provides a strong foundation in relevant mechanical engineering principles, electrical and electronic systems, control theory, vehicle communications, while introducing key technologies such as electric machines, power electronics, energy storage and high-voltage architectures. You will apply this knowledge through automotive-focused modules covering electric and hybrid-electric drivetrains, vehicle dynamics, intelligent control systems, and modelling and simulation and a 2-month Group Project. A strong emphasis is placed on practical, hands-on learning through laboratory work, design-led projects, and the use of industry-leading software tools, hardware-in-the-loop platforms, and rapid prototyping environments. This ensures that you leave the programme with both a rigorous theoretical grounding and the practical, vehicle and system-level engineering capability required to meet the demands of today’s automotive industry.