Shell Eco-marathon Asia-Pacific and the Middle East 2024 officially kicked off on Wednesday with 78 student teams from 12 countries competing with their energy-efficient vehicles both on and off the track. Among these are seven teams representing the Philippines: Cardinal One from Mapua University, Eco Archers from De La Salle University, Hygears from Polytechnic University of the Philippines, XU Mekan-Eco from Xavier University, Team Kasalag from Adamson University, Team Siklab from Jose Rizal University, and UMindanao Wildcats from the University of Mindanao.
Held for the third consecutive year in Indonesia, the regional competition will see students from across Asia and the Middle East battle it out at the Mandalika International Circuit in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, from July 3 to 6.
At Shell Eco-marathon Asia-Pacific and the Middle East 2024, students will compete to create ultra-energy efficient vehicles, which they design and build themselves, in two vehicle categories: Prototype and Urban Concept. The Prototype class focuses on ultra-efficient, lightweight designs, typically with three wheels, aiming to reduce resistance and maximize efficiency. The Urban Concept class emphasizes energy efficiency in conventional four-wheeled vehicle designs, closer to passenger cars in appearance, and designed to road-worthy specifications. Participants can choose from one of three energy categories: battery-electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and internal combustion engine (gasoline, ethanol, and/or diesel).
To compete in the Shell Eco-marathon Asia-Pacific and the Middle East 2024, teams must meet a set of technical and safety rules to qualify for the competition. Qualifying teams then compete in one of the two-vehicle class categories to determine which vehicle can cover the longest distance with the least amount of fuel.
UMindanao Wildcats from the University of Mindanao, Cardinal One from Mapua University, Eco Archers from De La Salle University, Team Kasalag from Adamson University, and Team Siklab from Jose Rizal University have all successfully passed the technical inspection.
This year, Shell Eco-marathon Asia-Pacific and the Middle East 2024 sees the participation of not only returning student teams but also new teams competing for the first time. Participants are showcasing their efforts in developing vehicles with higher levels of energy efficiency.
Shell Eco-marathon Asia-Pacific and the Middle East 2024 will also feature several events on the sidelines, such as Shell LiveWIRE, an enterprise development program for young energy entrepreneurs; Shell NXplorers, an educational program focusing on critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills for youths; and Shell Indonesia Women’s Network, a discussion and empowerment programme enabling students to explore their future potential.
