UCR EcoCAR Team Competes in Year 2 of EcoCAR EV Challenge
From May 13 to May 22, 2024, the UCR EcoCAR team competed against twelve other top universities in the Year 2 Competition for the EcoCAR EV Challenge held in Yuma and Phoenix, AZ. This 4-year competition aims to engineer next-generation battery electric vehicles (BEVs) that utilize automation and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) connectivity. The goal is to create energy-efficient, customer-pleasing features while addressing the automotive industry's pressing need for decarbonization.
The interdisciplinary team has spent the past year tirelessly developing and refining designs for an all-electric powertrain, as well as incorporating advanced connected and autonomous features. Now, they are bringing these innovative designs to life, showcasing their engineering skills and collaborative spirit in this prestigious competition.
In the fall of 2023, the UCR team received their 2023 Cadillac LYRIQ vehicles from General Motors, marking the beginning of an intense and rewarding journey. Students conducted baseline testing, developed subsystem designs, and began the intricate process of disassembly and integration. By spring, all vehicles had undergone rigorous Vehicle Technical Inspections by competition organizers, ensuring they were ready for the challenges ahead.
Matthew Barth, who leads the UCR EcoCAR team, expressed his pride, saying, "The team has worked exceptionally hard to ensure everything was ready in time for this competition. From late nights in the lab to weekend testing sessions, they have been pushing the boundaries of automotive technology and sustainability.”
The first stage took place in Yuma, AZ, where the UCR EcoCAR team's vehicle underwent extensive technical inspections to assess safety and integration quality. Following these inspections, the vehicles faced a series of dynamic events at the General Motors proving ground. These events included On-Road Safety Evaluation, Acceleration, Longitudinal Control testing, and Endurance and Energy Consumption tests. Demonstrating their exceptional engineering capabilities, the EcoCAR team not only passed most vehicle technical inspections but also secured a commendable 7th-place finish, closing the week on a high note.
During the second stage in Phoenix, AZ, the competition shifted to presentations, where the UCR EcoCAR team showcased their projects to sponsors and judges. These presentations highlighted their achievements in engineering, project management, communications, and equity in mobility. The event featured networking opportunities and recruitment events, allowing students to connect with industry leaders, potential employers, and fellow competitors.
Vincent Le, the EcoCAR project manager, added, "I’m proud of our team members' hard work and collaboration. From integrating complex systems to ensuring seamless project management, everyone has contributed significantly. We are proud of our advancements and look forward to what we will achieve in the coming years."
With their strong showing in both the technical and presentation stages, the UCR EcoCAR team showcased exceptional innovation and spirit throughout the competition. With two more years remaining in the competition, we eagerly anticipate the achievements that lie ahead for this talented group of students.
For more information about the EcoCAR EV Challenge, visit the AVTC Series website.
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