Team 612 Evaluates Potential Switch to Swerve Drive

Overview: Following Competition 1, leadership has been discussing a possible switch to Swerve drivetrain from Mecanum drivetrain.

CHANTILLY, VA, MARCH 13TH, 2025. Chantilly Robotics is currently evaluating a potential switch from a Mecanum drive to a Swerve drive chassis following its first competition, aiming to improve the robot’s overall performance and strategic capabilities.

The team has not yet committed to the switch but is actively testing the feasibility of Swerve drive. "We’re still in the testing phase, but the potential benefits of Swerve—like improved speed, precision, and alignment—make it a promising option," said a previous Mechanical team member, Francis Navarro Lim. Swerve drive’s ability to move in any direction independently could allow the robot to cycle faster and score more coral, providing a strategic edge during matches.

The Electrical and Mechanical subteams are collaborating to integrate the Swerve modules and adjust the robot’s control system. The team is also considering how Swerve drive might affect other systems, including the intake and elevator. While the transition would require significant adjustments, the team is working to ensure the switch would lead to better cycle times and more consistent scoring.

Ultimately, the decision will depend on whether the advantages of Swerve outweigh the challenges of switching mid-season. The team remains focused on improving performance and is committed to finding the most effective strategy for success in competition two and further into districts.

About Chantilly Robotics 

Chantilly Robotics (FRC team 612) brightens the future for leaders and student technologists  within our team, school, and community through fun and engaging methods of learning and  teaching while shining a light on the importance of STEM (science, technology, engineering,  math).  

Founded in 2001 with eight student members as an engineering class project, Chantilly  Robotics is one of the largest extracurricular organizations at Chantilly High School with over  100 registered members each year. Team 612 competes at FIRST Robotics Competitions in the  Chesapeake District. Outside of competition Team 612 supports multiple FIRST Lego League  Teams and elementary school STEM activities in the Chantilly High School Pyramid, spreading  love for STEM as well as FIRST values through community outreach.  

For more information, visit https://www.frc612.org or email chantilly.612@gmail.com. The  Chantilly Governor’s STEM Academy, located at Chantilly High School, sponsors Team 612.  Chantilly Academy inspires and empowers a diverse body of learners to explore career  pathways employing current industry trends taught by dedicated professionals.

Ani