KUCHING – Taking a momentous stride towards environmental sustainability and pioneering engineering, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus is gearing up for its first-ever participation in the renowned Shell Eco-Marathon 2024.
This annual competition provides opportunities for a new generation of brilliant young changemakers – presenting a global platform for student teams to create, construct and race vehicles with a strong focus on engineering excellence and energy efficiency. This season will witness three regional competitions, two local events in Brazil and China as well as a world championship.
Embracing this eco-conscious challenge, Swinburne Sarawak has curated a diverse team comprising members hailing from a range of disciplines, including Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering, Design, Business and more. This multidisciplinary approach reflects the university’s unwavering commitment to nurturing innovative and sustainable solutions for a greener world.
The Swinburne Sarawak team will be participating in the Shell Eco-Marathon Asia-Pacific and the Middle East 2024, one of the regional competitions which will take place from 2 to 7 July 2024 at Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit, Lombok, Indonesia.
Swinburne Sarawak’s mission is to design and construct energy-efficient vehicles powered by cutting-edge hydrogen and electric prototypes. These advanced vehicles are meticulously engineered to excel in covering substantial distances while utilising the least possible fuel or energy. The team’s aspiration is to lead the way in eco-conscious engineering, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved.
On 27 June 2023, the team at Swinburne Sarawak proudly introduced their design prototypes to their key sponsors and backers. This critical milestone not only underscored the team’s relentless dedication but also offered a glimpse into the future of sustainable transportation.
A group photo with Professor William D Rieken (front row, second right) after his guest lecture on rotating detonation engines.
The team marked an academic zenith on 24 July 2023, as they played host to a distinguished professor from Okayama University, Professor William D Rieken. The illuminating session centred on rotational detonation rocket engines and opened up exciting avenues of knowledge and innovation.
One of the most remarkable developments has been the generous backing of Solarvest, a pivotal achievement in the team’s journey. This financial support was instrumental in transforming their prototypes into tangible reality, bringing the team one step closer to their mission.
On 9 August 2023, Solarvest Borneo, a subsidiary of Solarvest Holdings Berhad, officially partnered with Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS) and Swinburne Sarawak – signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to create a cutting-edge hydrogen and electric prototype race car for the upcoming competition. This collaboration brings together expertise from three industry leaders, offering students valuable experience in the sustainable mobility sector.
An MoU was signed create between Solarvest Borneo, CENTEXS and Swinburne Sarawak to create a cutting-edge hydrogen and electric prototype race car for the upcoming competition.
The project, overseen by Mr Joseph Koh, an experienced participant in the Eco-Marathon, aims to drive innovation in the automotive industry, with potential applications in the broader market.
“Notably, Sarawak is already making strides in hydrogen transportation, including the world’s first hydrogen-powered smart tram,” said Koh.
“This partnership equips local students with essential skills for success in Malaysia’s growing renewable energy sector. It is a promising initiative with significant implications for Sarawak’s renewable energy and hydrogen mobility ambitions,” he added.
A team visit to CENTEXS, accompanied by Mr Joseph Koh (back row, fifth left).
To follow along on the Swinburne Sarawak Shell Eco-Marathon team’s journey, visit their Instagram page (@shell_ecomarathon_suts) or LinkedIn page (@Team Green Gear – SUTS).
For more information on Swinburne Sarawak, visit its website, Facebook page (@swinburnesarawak), Instagram page (@swinburnesarawak), Twitter page (@Swinburne_Swk), TikTok page (@swinburnesarawak) or YouTube channel (Swinburne Sarawak).