Baja SaeIndia 2025 physical round set to showcase sustainable motility at NATRAX, Pithampur

The physical round (Phase 3) of Baja SaeIndia 2025 is set to take place at the National Automotive Test Tracks (NATRAX) in Pithampur, Indore, from January 9 to January 12. The event will feature approximately 50 teams competing in the mBaja category and 20 in the hBaja category. One of the key highlights will be the unveiling of India’s first Hydrogen-CNG (HCNG) Baja buggy.

Since its launch in 2007, Baja SaeIndia has grown from a single-category event with 27 participating teams to a platform featuring four categories: mBaja, eBaja, hBaja, and aBaja. These categories showcase advancements in internal combustion engine technology, electric mobility, hydrogen-CNG hybrids, and autonomous systems.

This year’s theme, “Fusion 4 Future,” emphasises four pillars: technology, diversity, sustainability, and connectivity. The event highlights collaboration among students from different engineering disciplines to design and build all-terrain vehicles. It also incorporates sustainable initiatives, including cleaner energy technologies and tools like ANSYS Granta, and explores connectivity solutions through autonomous and connected vehicle technologies in the aBaja category.

The event began with a Preliminary Round in June 2024 at Sri Sairam College of Engineering, Chennai, where teams presented initial designs. A Virtual Round in December 2024 at Chitkara University, Punjab, included evaluations of design, cost analysis, sustainability, and a Virtual Dynamic Event (VDE) using simulation software. These rounds provided teams with feedback to refine their vehicles for the final phase.

Dr. K. C. Vora, Advisor to Baja SaeIndia , noted the evolution of the event into a platform for innovation and technical learning. He highlighted the introduction of HCNG fuel in the hBaja category as a step toward achieving 100% hydrogen-powered vehicles by 2030, aligning with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission.

The event will open with a press conference hosted by Acropolis Institute of Technology and Research on January 8. The hBaja endurance race is scheduled for January 11, followed by the mBaja endurance race on January 12. A valedictory ceremony on January 12 will conclude the competition.

Before the endurance events, teams will undergo technical inspections and static and dynamic evaluations, including brake tests, acceleration, maneuverability, suspension, and traction challenges. The endurance race will test the vehicles’ durability and performance under challenging conditions.

In addition to the competition, an HR meet will be held on January 13 and 14, providing participants with opportunities to engage with industry professionals and explore career prospects.