MRIU’s MRV3 to compete in Shell Eco Marathon 2014

January 24, 2014: Students from the Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET) of Manav Rachna International University (MRIU) have developed a Formula 1 Racing Car (MRV3), an eco-friendly vehicle delivering 123km/litre. The urban diesel car will compete at the Shell Eco Marathon to be held in Manila, Philippines on February 6, 2014.

The MRV3 Formula 1 racing car has a five-point seat belt for safety, four hydraulic disc brakes using Bosch TMC and a Taylor steering system. The chassis can bear a load of 500kg. The fiberglass body has hollow circular pipes to reduce weight and improve strength. Weighing only 180kg, the vehicle is powered by a single-cylinder, 269cc, 3.7bhp diesel engine which is mated with an automatic transmission with auto clutch CVT.

“It is a moment of great pride for us to represent our nation at such an event. Not many students get a chance to apply and test their theoretical knowledge at the practical level. We are really obliged to Manav Rachna for giving us the opportunity to work on this project,” said Aman Agha, leader of Team Synchromesh. (Team Synchromesh comprises students of FET.

Dr Prashant Bhalla, Chancellor, MRIU, said: “Today, India spends only 1 percent energy on research and innovation. We want our educational institutions to share this responsibility and develop incubation centres, encourage research and work hand in hand with industries.”

The Shell Eco Marathon challenges students to design, build and drive the most energy-efficient car. At three events around the world, hundreds of teams compete to travel the farthest distance on the least amount of energy. This is Manav Rachna’s third foray at the Shell Eco Marathon. Petrol was the fuel of choice in initial years, but this time around diesel is the choice of fuel.

“Our aim is to create a balance between knowledge dissemination and innovation. To the best of our capabilities, we motivate and help students to innovate and try to inculcate out-of-the-box thinking amongst them,” added Dr B S Gill, director, Dr OP Bhalla Innovation and Incubation Centre.

SHOBHA MATHUR