Rose-Hulman has been selected to participate in the EcoCAR Innovation Challenge, a premier four-year collegiate automotive engineering competition led by the U.S. Department of Energy and industry partners including General Motors, Stellantis, and MathWorks.

The selection places Rose-Hulman among 20 universities across North America chosen to help shape the future of mobility by developing advanced vehicle technologies and intelligent transportation solutions. The competition officially launched April 13 with public announcement of participating teams found here.

Through the challenge, Rose-Hulman students will architect, design, and integrate a high voltage energy storage system and an electric drive unit into a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) platform enabling teams to explore various propulsion and battery system architectures. Teams will target optimizing their vehicle’s overall efficiency and off-road capabilities by iteratively simulating various modifications, integrating new propulsion components, and designing / calibrating advanced controls algorithms.

The EcoCAR Innovation Challenge transforms the traditional classroom into a hub of real-world engineering experience. Students will participate in professional workshops and training while building critical skills in leadership, teamwork, and project management—preparing them to contribute immediately in the rapidly evolving automotive and mobility industries.

Rose-Hulman’s effort will again be led by Professor of Mechanical Engineering Zac Chambers, PhD, and Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Nathan Brooks, PhD, who have guided past student teams in national Advanced Vehicle Technology Competitions, including the Battery Workforce Challenge. Their leadership alongside will support a multidisciplinary team of students spanning engineering, computer science, and related fields. Other faculty advisors include Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering  Marc Herniter, PhD, Assistant Professors of Electrical and Computer Engineering Monay Shoushan, PhD, Sourav Ukil, PhD, and Mahfuzur Rahman, PhD, and Associate Dean of Lifelong Learning and Head of the Department of Engineering Management and Professor Craig Downing, PhD.

“EcoCAR provides an exceptional opportunity for our students to apply their knowledge to challenges that are shaping the future of transportation,” said Rose-Hulman Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Ellen Goldey, PhD. “Experiences like this exemplify Rose-Hulman’s commitment to hands-on learning and preparing graduates to lead in emerging, high-impact industries.” 

As with previous AVTC competitions, Rose-Hulman students will operate as a mock automotive startup—following industry processes to design, build, and validate solutions that address real-world customer needs. The program also connects students directly with industry mentors and cutting-edge tools used in modern vehicle development. 

Additional details, including student team composition and project milestones, will be shared throughout the competition.