Optimization occurs after the car has been assembled and tested. This is the process of fine-tuning the design for top performance. The winning car in this contest is likely to have optimized the design variables, that is, chosen the best ones for the given task. This is not always straightforward. Experienced designers know that this process involves trade-offs, because optimizing one variable may prevent you from optimizing another.

For example, a frame that is both stiff and light may be desired, but stiffer frames may be heavier. Another classic example is the transmission ratio: a car with high top speed takes a long time to accelerate. Taking the time to optimize the car will often improve the performance dramatically.

Remember that as components are optimized the car must be tested again to see the overall effect of the change. This will return you to the test step of the process and requires measurable testing to compare.