The Shell Eco-marathon Global Rules, Chapter I, are updated every year and must be strictly adhered to by every participating team to design and build their cars for competitions. These global rules contain all the technical information, safety requirements and information on energy categories and vehicle types that teams must follow.

In addition, the Chapter I Rules provide criteria for the some of the elements of the Virtual League, such as the Off-track Awards and Virtual Technical Inspection.

There are additional specific rules for each Shell Eco-marathon on-track competition and remaining Virtual League components, which will be available in due course. Eligibility to the competitions is related to the zone where a team is located, as defined by the Organisers. A map with the split of the three Shell Eco-marathon regions is available for download below.