MathWorks will supply model-based design and simulation tools to all participating teams, reinforcing industry-standard practices.

Twenty North American university engineering teams have been selected for the EcoCAR Innovation Challenge, aligned with either General Motors or Stellantis sponsorship tracks, and they will work on two vehicle platforms—the 2026 Chevy Blazer EV and the 2026 Jeep Cherokee hybrid.

The EcoCAR Innovation Challenge, administered by Argonne National Laboratory under the DOE's AVTC program, seeks to develop engineering talent and market-ready mobility solutions for the future auto industry.

This 15th edition of the college-focused competition is launched with major support from General Motors, Stellantis, and MathWorks, and is backed by the US Department of Energy and Argonne National Laboratory.

GM’s involvement emphasizes providing real-world hardware and engineering context to teams, stressing practical expertise in integrating software, controls, powertrains, and customer experience.

The program prioritizes Model-Based Design, simulation workflows, and the integration of software, controls, advanced powertrains, and customer experience, with a focus on AI, machine learning, and exascale computing in intelligent mobility.

Students will develop skills in software integration, controls, and advanced powertrains by leveraging Model-Based Design, simulations, and emerging technologies.

Author: George Barta.

Official information and updates are available at avtcseries.org.

The article includes a human-interest note about Natalie Neff, a lifelong car enthusiast, highlighting a personal perspective alongside the program news.

The competition emphasizes hands-on, practical engineering experiences that mirror industry workflows, fostering collaboration between industry and academia to strengthen the U.S. workforce.

The program aims to address the skills gap as electrified drivetrains, automated systems, and software-defined vehicles become standard, training engineers capable of working across hardware, software, and customer experience.