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2020 Virtual Programme

Shell Eco-marathon in 2020 – the first all-virtual programme

In the wake of the pandemic and the cancellation of live track events in 2020, a refreshed virtual programme was launched to recognise the hard work and passion that Shell Eco-marathon teams put in every year, offering them new ways to participate despite not being able to get on the track.

From making some familiar competitions completely virtual, to launching new virtual learning opportunities with industry experts, and introducing brand new ways for teams to compete; the aim of the 2020 Shell Eco-marathon season was to inspire, challenge and provide students the chance to actively collaborate and learn, even if unable to get together as a team.

So, read on for the highlights of the 2020 virtual programme; and what’s coming up in the 2021 programme and how you can get involved.

Shell Eco-marathon team celebrate

2020 Virtual Off-Track Awards

There is a story behind every Shell Eco-marathon car. The Off-Track Awards showcase the STEM skills that go into each Shell Eco-marathon project, recognising the outstanding achievements of teams off the track. Read about the 2020 winning teams who were honoured in virtual awards ceremonies per region.

2020 Virtual Off-Track Awards
Shell Eco-marathon partner talks to students

Virtual Learning Sessions

This year we continue with the series of Shell Eco-marathon Virtual Learning Sessions streamed live via YouTube. The sessions are a collaboration with our technology partners and enable students to participate, continue to learn and interact from the safety and comfort of their own homes.

Virtual Learning Sessions
Two students hugging

Spirit of Shell Eco-marathon Award

NEW for 2020, this award celebrates what makes Shell Eco-marathon so special: the desire to come together to overcome barriers to progress. The Spirit of Shell Eco-marathon Award showcases the spirit of collaboration, empathy, finding solutions and using skills and talents for the good.

Spirit of Shell Eco-marathon Award

Important updates on 2020 Shell Eco-marathon programme - FAQs

Will Shell Eco-marathon teams be reimbursed for the expenses they’ve incurred to date, such as travel that was booked prior to event cancellation announcements?

We have taken the decision that all student teams who qualified to participate in the Shell Eco-marathon Americas, Shell Eco-marathon Asia or the Shell Eco-marathon Europe competitions in 2020 will still receive the travel allowance they would have been entitled to if they had attended the event. This will be calculated in the same way as it was in 2019.

Can teams compete in alternative Shell Eco-marathon events in 2020?

The global impacts of COVID-19 have meant that all physical events in 2020 have been cancelled. However, while we can’t gather around a track, we’re delighted to share the latest on the alternative Shell Eco-marathon virtual programme. Above on this page, you will find an overview of the 2020 programme, what’s coming up and how you can get involved.

Will I still be able to enter an off-track award?

Submissions for all regions are now closed. You can watch the virtual award ceremonies via the link below.

Find out more about the 2020 Virtual Off-track Awards.

Will I still receive a certificate?

Teams who have been approved to compete at the events will receive a letter that recognises your official selection to participate in the programme in 2020. If you receive academic credit for your Shell Eco-marathon participation, please speak with your faculty member.

Is prize money still being awarded?

Prize money will be awarded for competitions that take place in 2020 such as the Virtual Off-track Awards. Above on this page, you will find an overview of the 2020 programme, what’s coming up and how you can get involved.

What will happen with 2021 selection as it’s based on quality of previous results?

For the 2021 programme, priority will be given to all teams who were selected for Phase 3 in the 2020 programme.

What is happening with the Autonomous Category in 2020?

While we have taken the decision to cancel a physical Autonomous Category competition in 2020, we continue to develop this category with students and partners. We have announced a beta trial of the new Shell Eco-marathon Autonomous Programming Competition. This will initially be trialled with a small number of teams from the Americas region and we will communicate updates as they develop.

Find out more about the Autonomous Category.