Hello, I'm

Yiğit Topal

Vehicle Dynamics & Simulation Engineer

Mechanical engineering student at ITU and vehicle dynamics engineer at ITU Racing, developing handling models, suspension analyses, and trackside engineering tools.

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Yiğit Topal

About Me

A bit about who I am

I am a mechanical engineering student and vehicle dynamics engineer specializing in mathematical modeling, multi-body simulations, and trackside engineering tools. From building 2-DOF/3-DOF handling models and suspension compliance simulations in MATLAB to developing data tools for setup analysis and race pace comparison, my work bridges numerical computation with physical vehicle behavior. Backed by hands-on prototyping I focus on optimizing performance from the initial script to the final on-track validation.

Technical Skills

Vehicle Dynamics Modeling
Suspension & K&C Analysis
Race Engineering Tools
MATLAB & Python
CAD
Manufacturing & Prototyping

Projects

Milliken Moment Method Solver

Developed a numerical solver to map the non-linear lateral acceleration (A_y) versus yaw moment (M_z) envelope of a Formula Student car. By sweeping sideslip (β) and steer angles (δ), the tool characterizes handling characteristics, stability limits, and control authority at the limit of adhesion.

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Experience

  1. ITU Racing

    2025 — Present

    Vehicle Dynamics Engineer

    • Developed 2-DOF and 3-DOF vehicle handling simulations in MATLAB to analyze transient steer, step steer, and sine input responses.
    • Conducted suspension elastokinematic and compliance (K&C) analyses to evaluate deflections and geometry changes under dynamic loads.
    • Engineered an integrated race engineering and setup logging tool to track vehicle configurations, lap times, and driver race pace performance.

  2. Mechameleons (FRC Team #9025)

    2022 — 2026

    Co-Founder, Team Captain & Mentor

    • Co-founded the high school FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) team and led end-to-end robot engineering as the first team captain.
    • Designed mechanical subsystems in SolidWorks and Onshape, overseeing fabrication and precision assembly.
    • Developed autonomous and teleoperated robot control algorithms using Java and integrated electrical power architectures.
    • Managed corporate outreach, sponsorship pitches, and team budget to secure project funding and technical partnerships.

Education

  1. Istanbul Technical University

    2025 — Present

    B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering

  2. Vefa High School

    2020 — 2025

    High School Diploma

Contact

Get in Touch

Interested in vehicle dynamics, simulations, or potential engineering collaborations? Feel free to reach out.

[email protected]→

© 2026 Yiğit Topal.