Shell Eco-Marathon: A race like no other

MANILA, Philippines - There have been so many movies and games that have always been associated with racing and automobiles. Whether it is The Fast and Furious, Need for Speed or Grand Theft Auto, these have caught an iconic following because of how cars in their respective franchises were customized and built in a way to win the race by all means.

The Shell Eco-Marathon was the first of its kind to be held in the country. It was held in the Quirino Grandstand area from February 7-9. Covering a large part from the Rizal Park to Manila Ocean Park until the Manila Hotel, one can feel the racing atmosphere at an Asian level.

This was not a typical race where five or more cars would start at the same time, but rather a competition among the top universities all over Asia to test the capabilities of the engineering students in building an efficient automobile using a particular amount of gasoline provided by Shell, required to pass the company’s safety stands, and using Michelin tires that is suited for the particular race track.

Cars were properly ensured most especially to provide safety and precaution for its drivers. Different materials were used. For some, the lighter the better, the simpler it is, the more it would not be difficult for the driver. One would be astonished as to how they were able to manage to reach a possible time given the amount of gasoline their vehicle used.

Aside from the race track, the event had so many attractions suitable for people for all ages. There was an Energy Lab, where one would be able to fully grasp and understand the science behind Shell gasoline and for racing automobiles.

For children and car enthusiasts, they also were given toy model cars, and Shell stickers which they can design with and customize. Aside from simply designing their cars, there was also a mini race track where they can test their cars and compete against the others.

A Michelin booth was also inside to show the different tires used for different road conditions. 

The Shell Eco-Marathon Asia 2014 was held in partnership with the Department of Tourism, Department of Energy and the City of Manila. Its global partners include Hewitt-Packard (Official Global Information Technology Partner), Michelin (Official tire supplier and global paddock partner), the Linde Group (Official Global Paddock partner) and Southwest Research Institute. Local private sector partners include Solane, Coca-Cola, Globe, Lego, Hyundai and Unilever Philippines.