In 2021, Shell Eco-marathon is adopting a hybrid model comprising definitively of virtual elements, and where possible, on-track elements. This structure will allow for maximum flexibility to adjust to prevailing safety and travel conditions due to COVID-19, while still ensuring a robust Shell Eco-marathon offering in 2021.

The Virtual Programme of the Shell Eco-marathon programme for 2021 consists of five component competitions, which are all part of a global Virtual League. Participating teams will be able to earn points via any of the five component competitions that they choose to take part in and will be globally ranked. The Virtual League consist of the following component competitions as defined in Article 90 and Article 91 in Section 6 of the Shell Eco-marathon 2021 Global Rules, Chapter I:

Pitch the Future
Autonomous Programming Competition
Bonus Challenges
Virtual Off-Track Awards (See Section 6B of the Chapter I Rules)
Virtual Technical Inspection (See Section 6A of the Chapter I Rules)

The specific dates and rules for each component competition yet undefined in Chapter I will be announced in due course.

Participation in each Virtual League component competition is voluntary, but participation in the Virtual Technical Inspection is a necessary pre-requisite for application to any on-track event in 2021, should they take place. 

Find out more information about the Virtual Programme

Achievements in the Virtual League component competitions will gain teams points in the ranked global Virtual League table. The points will be awarded as defined in Article 91 of the Shell Eco-marathon 2021 Global Rules, Chapter I.

Where and when it is safely possible to host physical events, the On-track Programme will include the new Mini Shell Eco-marathon competition. Still based on the traditional mileage challenge format, these will be smaller, more accessible events to take place across the regions, in line with the required global and local health and safety guidelines.

Find out more information about the On-track Programme.

General registration is open from September 7 to October 14, 2020 for all regions. You must register for your chance to take part in any of the virtual components, including Virtual Technical Inspection. Please note that the registration for the first of our activities, Pitch the Future, will close on September 30, 2020.

Specific registration for on-track events will open closer to the event dates next year; however, you must ensure you are already registered for Virtual Technical Inspection to be considered for on-track events.

Yes, individual submission pages will be available for each virtual competition and you can register up to 20 team members.

Yes, there will be certificates available after each Virtual League activity for individual team members as well as team certificates.

As the global impacts of COVID-19 continue to evolve, the safety and health of our Shell Eco-marathon participants and organising teams remains our top priority.

In 2021 we will continue to monitor developments closely to determine the safest approach. We will evaluate events on a case-by-case basis and using the best information available and will only proceed with events when we are confident that all reasonable controls can be implemented.