DENSO is sponsoring the EcoCAR EV Challenge, part of the Advanced Vehicle Technology Competition (AVTC) series. This is the third time DENSO has sponsored an AVTC event. In the four-year student competition, university teams compete by engineering next generation battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and use automation and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) connectivity to implement energy-efficient and customer-pleasing features.
The format gives students the opportunity to work hands-on with automated, connected and electrified solutions that will define the future of the automotive industry, preparing them for their careers and to help improve mobility.
DENSO will provide monetary and in-kind donations as part of its support, including:
- Motor generators, components key to enabling vehicle electrification;
- Technical support in safety and electrified technology areas;
- Career mentorship; and
- Evaluation support for student reports and presentations.
Encouraging the next generation of problem solvers and introducing them to the latest automotive technologies advances DENSO’s Two Great Causes: Green – achieving carbon neutrality by 2035 – and Peace of Mind – creating a safe and seamless world for all.
“It takes innovative technology to optimize how society moves, but even more than that it requires people – people from dynamic backgrounds and with fresh perspectives,” said Jim Harkins, a director of Electrified Systems Engineering at DENSO. “That’s why we’re thrilled to work with EcoCAR. It gives DENSO the opportunity to help bring in new people to tomorrow’s workforce, and it gives students the chance to learn, grow and gain valuable experience.”
In addition to working with EcoCAR, DENSO’s philanthropic group, the DENSO North America Foundation (DNAF), is also dedicated to helping students advance their educations in science, technology, engineering, math and related programs. To do this, the foundation provides grants to colleges and universities across North America, giving students opportunities to enhance their skills and pursue technical careers. DNAF also provides disaster relief grants as part of its mission to support the places DENSO calls home.
To learn more about the EcoCAR EV Challenge, visit its website.