UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, RIVERSIDE
About
UC Riverside (UCR) is one of two schools from California competing in the USDOE’s Advanced Vehicle Technology Competitions. UCR is geographically located in Inland Southern California, and is designated as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), well known for improving the success of low-income, first-generation students as well as students of color. As a result, our EcoCAR team consists of a diverse team of passionate and determined students from different careers, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Many of our team leads and faculty conduct their research at the Center for Environmental Research and Technology (CE-CERT), the largest research center at UCR and a leader in transportation, energy, and air quality. The Inland Empire is rapidly growing, and participation in EcoCAR is a large step to take UCR and our community to improve sustainable transportation practices.
Mission
Our mission is to empower the next generation of leaders and innovators through hands-on experience in advanced automotive research and development, while serving as a hub for automotive training in the Inland Empire. We are dedicated to expanding opportunities for low-income and first-generation students by investing in local K–12 education, economic growth, and workforce development so our community can thrive in industry, academia, and government.
Goals
- Our main goal for year 4 is to strategize on more efficient ways to work together as a multidisciplinary team while maintaining an inclusive and collaborative environment. We strive to commemorate success while embracing failure as a team by fostering a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas and obstacles.
- Our second goal is for our team to meet all project milestones on time and within the yearly budget. We aim to ensure role clarity and effective cross-functional integration for overall team development.
- Our third goal is to develop and test advanced features in the vehicle, such as One-Pedal Drive (OPD), Automated Intersection Navigation (AIN), and Cooperative Adaptive Cruise Control (CACC) in diverse environments such as On-Road and Chassis Dynamometer.
Dr. Matthew Barth
Lead Faculty Advisor
University of California, Riverside Team
Dr. Guoyuan Wu
Lead CAVs Faculty Advisor
University of California, Riverside Team
Maryam Noor
Administrative Project Manager
University of California, Riverside Team
Nilesh Ram Balusu
Technical Project Manager
University of California, Riverside Team
Semaria Kebede
Communications Manager
University of California, Riverside Team
Esa Hasan
Mobility Challenge Lead
University of California, Riverside Team
May Tambo
SDI Lead
University of California, Riverside Team
Aedyn Green
PCM Lead
University of California, Riverside Team
Edison Li
CAV Lead
University of California, Riverside Team
Team Leader Quotes
What does it mean to be part of EcoCAR to you?
Maryam Noor: EcoCAR happened to me when I was searching for a meaningful opportunity. I never imagined that in such a short time, I would grow so attached to it. What began as a way to gain exposure has turned into something I feel deeply connected to. I take pride in my work and feel protective of the project because it truly feels like mine.
What have you gained from being involved in EcoCAR?
Edison Li: Being part of EcoCAR has given me hands-on experience integrating real vehicle systems with advanced simulations. I’ve learned how teamwork, innovation, and persistence can turn complex research into real-world impact. This experience has helped me grow not only as an engineer but also as a problem-solver ready to take on industry challenges.
What have you gained from being involved in EcoCAR?
Aedyn Green: Being part of EcoCAR has significantly deepened my understanding of Simulink and control system design. Working hands-on with the vehicle’s propulsion systems has been both challenging and rewarding, allowing me to apply classroom theory to real-world innovation. This experience has not only strengthened my technical expertise but also shaped the way I approach problem-solving and collaboration. EcoCAR has been an incredible opportunity to grow, refine my engineering skills, and prepare for a career at the intersection of technology and sustainability.
Get Involved
Interested in joining one of UC Riverside’s most innovative and hands-on programs? The UCR EcoCAR EV Challenge welcomes students from all majors and skill levels — whether you’re passionate about electric vehicles, business, communications, or community engagement, there’s a place for you on our team.
Ways to Get Involved
- Connect with us: Follow @ecocar.ucr on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook for the latest updates.
- Senior Design Projects: Sign up for an ME or EE senior design project under one of our faculty advisors.
- Join a Subteam: Contact one of our points of contact (listed below) to get connected with a subteam lead, many of whom may also be your TAs, and start working on your first project.
Available Positions
We are currently recruiting for the following subteams:
- Communications: Social Media Leads, Videography/Editing Assistants, Graphic Designers
- Engineering: Electrical, Mechanical, Systems Integration, and Connected & Automated Vehicle (CAV) Members
- Mobility Challenge: Contributors in community engagement, human-centered design, and data analysis
Meeting Information
Location: Center for Environmental Research and Technology (CE-CERT)
1084 Columbia Ave, Riverside, CA 92507
General Team Meetings: Fridays, 3:00–4:00 PM (CE-CERT Conference Room)
Subteam Meetings: Scheduled weekly by each lead (times vary)
Volunteer Opportunities
EcoCAR hosts K–12 STEM outreach events, community expos, and sponsor engagement activities throughout the year. Volunteers are always welcome to assist with event setup, photography, videography, and public engagement.
Contact Information:
Address
1084 Columbia Avenue, Riverside, CA 92507
Semaria Kebede – Communications Manager | [email protected]
Maryam Noor – Administrative Project Manager | [email protected]
