UNS – Bengawan Team from Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta has successfully secured third place in the Prototype Internal Combustion Engine category. The team achieved this at the Shell Eco-Marathon Asia Pacific and Middle East 2025. The prestigious competition took place from February 8 to 12, 2025, at Lusail International Circuit, Qatar. It attracted top student teams from across Asia Pacific and the Middle East.
Overcoming Challenges in a Competitive Environment
General Manager of Bengawan Team UNS, Farhan Malique Azhari, shared that the team competed in the Prototype Internal Combustion Engine category. They participated in the same category as in previous years. In 2024, they secured first place at Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit. This year, the event presented new challenges, especially due to cold temperatures and strong winds in Qatar.
“The weather conditions forced us to adapt quickly. We faced several technical challenges but managed to overcome them. Finishing in third place is a testament to our dedication, innovation, and teamwork,” Farhan told uns.ac.id on Monday (17/2/2025).
Competing Against the Best
The competition was intense. Team Semeru from Universitas Negeri Malang secured first place, while Fueang Fha from Thailand took second place. However, Bengawan Team UNS showcased remarkable skill and strategic execution, securing third place while identifying key areas for future improvement.
Shell Eco-Marathon is a world-renowned competition challenging students to design, build, and drive the most energy-efficient vehicles. The 2025 event in Qatar brought together numerous talented teams, highlighting advancements in fuel efficiency and automotive technology.
A Milestone Achievement for Bengawan Team UNS
Bengawan Team UNS’s success reflects their hard work, determination, and technical expertise. Their achievements set new standards in the competition. They also inspire future teams to push the limits of energy-efficient vehicle design.
Farhan expressed immense pride in his team. He emphasized their ability to compete against teams from 12 countries. Those were Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, South Korea, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, etc.
“The final round of the Shell Eco-Marathon Asia Pacific and Middle East 2025 featured over 500 participants from 12 countries. Alhamdulillah, we secured third place among strong competitors. This proves that our innovation and hard work deserve recognition. We are extremely proud of this achievement and will continue striving for excellence in future competitions,” he said.
Gratitude to Supporters and Future Aspirations
Farand Putra Hendratmo, Vice Manager of the Bengawan Team, also extended his gratitude to those who contributed to the team’s success.
“We sincerely thank our sponsors and Universitas Sebelas Maret for their unwavering support, both morally and financially. Their contributions played a crucial role in our success. This achievement motivates us to continue researching and improving for future competitions,” he stated.
Throughout the competition, the Bengawan Team received guidance from Dr. Hammar Ilham Akbar, S.Pd., M.T. Dr. Rendy Adhi Rachmanto, S.T., M.T., and Prof. Dr. Eng. Syamsul Hadi, M.T., also mentored them.
Supporting Global Sustainability Goals
Bengawan Team UNS’s achievement aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Those are SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). Their innovative contributions to energy-efficient vehicle technology underscore their commitment to a sustainable future.
HUMAS UNS
Reporter: Annisa
Editor: Dwi Hastuti
