Each year the Society of Automotive Engineers organizes and facilitates a mini baja competition where schools from across the country can build a car and compete for awards in many different categories. The goal is not only to design, build, promote, test and race a small single seat off-road vehicle within the boundaries set by a quite hefty rulebook, but also to generate the financial means necessary to complete the task. The team is comprised of around 15 undergraduate students from mechanical and electrical engineering, biology and more.

All vehicles are to be powered by a Briggs and Stratton 10hp motor. The generosity of Briggs and Stratton has enabled SAE to provide each team with an engine free of charge for nearly 25 years.