The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) launched its Student Vehicle Competition Program in 1988 to demonstrate and test cutting-edge technologies developed in laboratories. By integrating the next generation of technical innovators with emerging advanced transportation technologies, the EcoCAR competition plays a key role in shaping a sustainable and environmentally responsible transportation future.

Through its network of national laboratories, the DOE maintains an ambitious research and development program focused on advancing vehicle technologies, including fuel cells, energy storage, hybrid systems, advanced materials, alternative fuels, and heat engines.

Committed to enhancing vehicle efficiency and reducing reliance on foreign oil, the DOE continues to drive innovation in sustainable transportation. Since its inception, the Student Vehicle Competition Program has provided hands-on engineering experience to over 30,000 students, many of whom have gone on to careers in the automotive industry—bringing with them a passion for advanced vehicle technologies.

For more information, visit DOE Vehicle Technologies Office.

MATLAB and Simulink are essential computational tools used in over 5,000 educational institutions worldwide. Recognized as one of the top 10 most popular programming languages, MATLAB supports teaching, research, and project-based learning. Integrating MATLAB and Simulink into the classroom fosters critical thinking, drives innovation, and equips students with the skills needed for successful careers in industry, where these tools are the standard for research and development (R&D).

Through participation in student competitions like EcoCAR, MathWorks empowers the next generation of scientists and engineers by providing software, training, and mentorship. These opportunities allow students to tackle real-world technical challenges similar to those faced by professional engineers.

Student teams gain access to industry-standard tools within a flexible design environment, enabling them to apply classroom concepts to competition challenges. As a result, graduates with competition experience enter the workforce ready to contribute effectively from day one.

By adopting a Model-Based Design approach, teams can design, test, validate, and collaborate on their models within a unified environment. Utilizing industry-standard tools like MATLAB and Simulink equips students with the expertise to solve complex engineering problems and excel in their careers.

Visit: https://www.mathworks.com/

General Motors (NYSE: GM) is a global company committed to driving an all-electric future that is both inclusive and accessible. Central to this vision is the Ultium battery platform, designed to power a wide range of vehicles, from mass-market models to high-performance machines.

GM, along with its subsidiaries and joint ventures, markets vehicles under the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Baojun, and Wuling brands. Additionally, OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety and security services, is part of GM’s portfolio.