Teams of Oxford University students recently participated in the 2012 Shell Eco-marathon, an annual competition that challenges students to design, build, and drive the most energy-efficient vehicles. The event took place in Rotterdam and included participants from across Europe, all vying to see who could travel the farthest on just one litre of fuel.
PEGGIE’s Debut Performance
Oxford’s team entered the competition with their electric vehicle, PEGGIE. Despite facing tough competition, PEGGIE secured a 12th place finish in the battery-electric prototype class, achieving 366 km/kWh. This impressive performance is equivalent to approximately 6,000 miles on one UK gallon of petrol. The team’s success was a testament to their hard work and the potential of their vehicle.
Challenges and Preparations
The road to the Eco-marathon was fraught with challenges. Teams had to adhere to a long list of competition and design rules, navigate logistical and financial constraints, and pass a rigorous technical and safety inspection. Many teams did not make it to Rotterdam, and some were unable to pass the inspection, ending their hopes of competing. Oxford’s team, however, passed the inspection on their first try, a significant milestone.
The Competition Experience
The competition took place around the Ahoy Convention Centre in Rotterdam, where the teams’ paddocks were located. The paddocks buzzed with activity as teams prepared their vehicles, and Oxford University’s team attracted considerable attention with PEGGIE’s sleek design.
PEGGIE’s driver, Lucy Mahoney, completed practice laps to familiarise herself with the track and fine-tune the competition strategy. During one practice session, PEGGIE experienced a minor rollover incident, but the vehicle and driver were unharmed, and the team quickly made the necessary repairs.
Strategic Adjustments
During the competition, PEGGIE’s first valid attempt achieved a score of 288 km/kWh. Based on onboard data, the team decided to switch to a more efficient motor, allowing PEGGIE to coast more effectively and reducing energy consumption. This strategic adjustment paid off, and PEGGIE’s final score improved to 366 km/kWh.
Lessons Learned and Future Plans
The experience provided valuable insights into vehicle efficiency and competition strategy. The team recognised the need for a complete redesign to be more competitive in future events. Key objectives for the next iteration of PEGGIE include reducing the vehicle’s weight and increasing the efficiency of each component.
The Importance of the Eco-marathon
The Shell Eco-marathon is not just a competition but a platform to showcase innovative approaches to sustainable energy. It highlights the creativity and technical skills of the next generation of engineers and emphasises the practical applicability of their designs in addressing global energy challenges.
Peter Voser, CEO of Royal Dutch Shell, encapsulated the event’s ethos: “The Shell Eco-marathon is all about working together on sustainable solutions to the world’s energy challenges. Through the creativity of a new generation of engineers and a partnership with the city of Rotterdam, we aim to showcase Europe’s talent in designing innovative approaches to the future of energy.”
