Mississippi State University’s EcoCAR team clinched multiple first-place victories and secured a coveted spot in the top 10 at this month’s EcoCAR EV Challenge.
During the May 12-23 competition in Yuma, Arizona, and San Diego, California, the Bulldog team’s outstanding performance was recognized with seven first-place wins, including the Mobility Challenge program, Project Management presentation and program, Impact Report, Stakeholder’s Profile, Partnership Charter and Social Media Management. The group also received the Outstanding Community Impact award and placed ninth overall at the competition.
MSU has a long history of success in EcoCAR competitions, where it has won the national competition four times and regularly receives high marks in categories ranging from technical to communications and marketing.
MSU EcoCAR team advisor John Ball—a Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering associate professor and Robert D. Guyton Chair—praised the group’s achievements and said this year’s victories reflect its innovative excellence.
“The team has once again proven what’s possible when talent, passion and relentless effort come together,” he said. “Its first-place finishes in the key areas of project management, community engagement and mobility innovation speak volumes about their excellence across the board.”
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, General Motors and MathWorks, the EcoCAR EV Challenge is a four-year competition where 15 North American universities are tasked with designing a next-generation battery electric vehicle. Participants showcase the capabilities of advanced propulsion systems and Connected and Automated Vehicle technologies. May marked the conclusion of the program’s third year.
The competition presented its share of challenges. While the team faced technical issues, such as high-voltage integration challenges and broken half-shafts, Ball said members’ collaborative spirits enabled them to overcome obstacles through creativity, hard work and perseverance, positioning them strongly for success in the contest’s upcoming final year.
“Returning from the third-year competition with multiple first-place awards is a phenomenal accomplishment. From strategic planning to stakeholder engagement, the MSU team demonstrated professionalism and ingenuity at every step,” he said.
The MSU EcoCAR team comprises approximately 100 students representing 13 majors, including mechanical engineering, electrical and computer engineering, aerospace engineering, industrial and systems engineering, computer science, cybersecurity and business administration. The competition gives the students hands-on experience that positions them to excel in their careers following graduation.