Frequently Asked Questions - General Questions

What is Shell Eco-marathon?

The principle of Shell Eco-marathon is simple: to design and build the world’s most fuel-efficient vehicle - and produce the fewest emissions. Shell Eco-marathon challenges high schools and universities to work in teams to design, build and test energy efficient vehicles.

It is a global program that supports education, encourages innovation, reinforces conservation and fosters the development of leading technology for greater energy efficiency. The goal is not to break speed records or be the first to finish; it is to consume as little fuel as possible over a set distance.

When and where is Shell Eco-marathon Americas?

Shell Eco-marathon Americas 2013 will take place in the spring in Houston, Texas, home to Shell U.S. Headquarters. The dates are April 4-7, 2013. The track will be on city streets of downtown and the paddock and camping areas will be located inside the George R. Brown Convention Center.

What is the Event Schedule?

The schedule will be determined later in the year. Details will be shared as soon as possible. When is Shell Eco-marathon Americas Phase I registration deadline?  You must complete Shell Eco-marathon Americas Phase I no later than December 15, 2012.

What type of vehicles can enter?

Teams can enter two main categories:

• Futuristic Prototypes - which are streamlined vehicles where the primary design consideration is reducing drag and maximizing efficiency.
• UrbanConcept - which are built to more conventional 4-wheel roadworthy criteria

What are the vehicle dimension requirements?

Please reference the vehicle dimensions outlined in the rules. We strongly encourage all competitors to read the official rules thoroughly and completely. Below is a snapshot of the dimensions for the prototype and UrbanConcept categories.

Prototype Vehicle Dimensions:

• Max height must be less than 100 cm 
• Max total vehicle width must not exceed 130 cm 
• Max vehicle weight, excluding the driver, is 140 kg 
• Max total length must not exceed 350 cm

UrbanConcept Vehicle Dimensions:

• Total height must be between 100 cm and 130 cm 
• Total width must be between 120 cm and 130 cm 
• Total length must be between 220 cm and 350 cm 
• Max vehicle weight, excluding the driver, must be 205 kg

Can I have more than eight people on my team?

Yes. During Phase II of registration, you will be able to register more team members if you have more than eight.

What are the sponsor logo dimensions?

The rules state that "the sponsor stickers must fit within a surface of 400 cm2 (empty space included.)" This means that your sponsor's entire sticker, not just their logo, must fit within those dimensions.