STARKVILLE – Mississippi State University’s EcoCAR team hosted its Spring Vehicle Showcase Ride and Drive last week, giving campus leadership, partners and guests an up-close look at the team’s award-winning electric vehicle.
The two-hour showcase highlighted the team’s work in the EcoCAR EV Challenge, a four-year collegiate engineering competition sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, General Motors, MathWorks and other industry leaders. During the current EV Challenge cycle (2022–2026), MSU has earned 14 first-place awards along with honors for outstanding community impact, faculty advising and workmanship. MSU was one of just 15 universities across North America selected to participate.
Guests were invited to view the team’s modified 2023 Cadillac LYRIQ, featuring advanced propulsion systems as well as connected and automated vehicle technologies. A key feature of this year’s modifications was the one-pedal drive system, designed to improve efficiency, accessibility and overall driving experience.
The event, which began with lunch and networking, included a virtual presentation and Q&A with national EcoCAR EV Challenge Program Director Jesse Alley. Attendees could also explore a student research showcase in the Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems lobby throughout the event.
Ride and Drive participants included MSU President Mark E. Keenum, Senior Vice Provost Brett Fountain, Bagley College of Engineering Dean David Ford, Associate Dean for Academics Robert Green, CAVS Director Clay Walden and T.K. Martin Center partners, including Director Kassee Stratton and Occupational Therapist Eric Knox.
“This event showcases the extraordinary talent and dedication of our students,” said Ford. “Through EcoCAR, they are gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge vehicle technologies while working alongside industry leaders to shape the future of mobility.”
MSU has participated in EcoCAR competitions for more than 20 years and continues to rank among the program’s top-performing teams.
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