GM EcoCar3 Competition Showcases Student-led Sustainable Future

Even I had a (small) role in this

At the last step of the competition, I was able to hop behind the wheel of Virginia Tech’s Camaro, which stood out as being the only V8-powered car in the competition. They designed the car as a spiritual successor to the Camaro SS with a big, rumbly V8 soundtrack, and nearly 40 miles-per-gallon worth of green credentials. (Check out my full review of that car on our sister site, LS1Tech.)

When all was said and done, not only had the students behind these cars impressed me with their products but also their enthusiasm behind the whole experience. Of course, I am not the only one taking notice. General Motors has several engineers overseeing the competition, and taking notes. Throughout this competition these students have come to understand GM products and systems. Naturally, they stand out as perfectly qualified candidates to work for GM and Chevrolet once they graduate. It’s a smart system on their part.

So, who won?

Of course, being the last step in the long four-year competition, there ultimately has to be a winner. So, which team was out there putting up solid numbers and taking home the victory? None other than my own alma mater, the Ohio State University. In addition to the coveted first place trophy and bragging rights, the Ohio State Buckeyes will take home an extra $10,000 to further support the university’s advanced vehicle technology program. The team earned 895 out of 1,000 overall points. On hand to present awards to EcoCar3 students were executives from General Motors, who praised the teams for their hard work.

“EcoCar3 is a great program that fosters future generations of automotive engineers and business people, encouraging them to become true innovators,” said Ken Morris, General Motors V.P. of Global Product Programs. “This year’s winners – and all the teams – are proof of that. It’s a competition that GM is proud to support.”

Congratulations to Team Ohio State, and to all of the teams. However, there is no rest for the weary. One student, who confided in me with anonymity, said that GM has already announced a next-generation competition to follow. Now, I wonder what EcoCar4 is going to be…

Photos for Chevrolet Forum by Jake Stumph

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Jacob Stumph

Jake Stumph is a lifelong car enthusiast and racer, and former content editor for Internet Brands Automotive which he joined in 2015. His work has been featured by several other prominent automotive outlets, including Jalopnik and Autobytel.

He obtained a bachelor's degree in Political Science at the Ohio State University in 2013, then pivoted from covering politics and policy to writing about his automotive adventures, something that, he says, is a lot more fun. Since that time, he has established connections with most of the world's major automakers, as well as other key brands in the automotive industry.

He enjoys track days, drifting, and autocross, at least, when his cars are running right, which is uncommon.