Written by: Cara McGuinness
As we close out Year 3 of the EcoCAR EV Challenge, our team has reached several key milestones that showcase our dedication, technical expertise, and collaborative spirit. From groundbreaking advancements in vehicle integration to refining our mobility solutions, each subteam has played a crucial role in pushing our project forward.
To highlight these achievements, we asked our subteam leads to share what they are most proud of this year—whether it’s a major technical breakthrough, a critical problem solved, or a moment of teamwork that made all the difference. Their insights offer a behind-the-scenes look at the progress we’ve made and the impact of our collective efforts.
Read on to hear from the team about the highlights of Year 3!
Year 3 was a defining chapter for McMaster EcoCAR, marked by outreach, strengthened partnerships, and expanded community impact. Through our initiatives and strategic engagement, each subteam has played a pivotal role in advancing the team’s mission—bridging the gap between our garage and the community. From inspiring future STEM leaders to key industry connections, our efforts this year have set new benchmarks for success.
Mobility Challenge (MC)
This competition year has been pivotal for the Mobility Challenge subteam, marked by the successful planning and execution of community-focused initiatives aimed at promoting a mobility driven focus by design. MCs flagship event, Mobility Matters: CarFit @ McMaster stands as a testament to the team’s dedication to this mission, bringing impactful mobility awareness to our local community.
Collaboration has been essential to these achievements. By working closely with their Community-Based Organization (CBO) and coordinating across subteams, the Mobility Challenge team has transformed innovative ideas into meaningful action. Moving forward, strengthening these partnerships will remain a priority, ensuring continuous growth and expansion in the scope, reach, and impact of our team’s efforts.
Communications (COMMs)
The Communications (COMMs) subteam achieved remarkable success in Year 3, driving audience engagement, strategic partnerships, and community impact. From expanding STEM outreach to strengthening relationships with sponsors and industry leaders, COMMs has reinforced McMaster EcoCAR’s influence in mobility innovation and education.
In August 2024, the team launched high-impact STEM initiatives, introducing students from the Greater Hamilton Area to mobility innovation through hands-on experiences at the McMaster Automotive Resource Centre, McMaster EcoCAR’s home base. Looking ahead, COMMs is preparing for two major youth outreach events, expected to engage a dynamic target audience of students and with aim to foster STEM awareness, and create meaningful ties between students and STEM fields. Through efforts like these, the COMMs team has established McMaster EcoCAR as a leader in STEM education and community involvement.
The COMMs subteam has remained committed to refining a data-driven digital strategy, emphasizing cross-platform activity, which has elevated McMaster EcoCAR’s social media reach and brand visibility, ensuring broader engagement and stronger connections with key audiences.
By expanding outreach, reinforcing stakeholder relationships, and refining digital engagement, COMMs is ensuring McMaster EcoCAR’s impact continues to grow—both on campus and beyond!
Year 3 Vehicle Achievements
Year 3 was defined by breakthrough innovations and real-world implementation across McMaster EcoCAR’s technical subteams. From advancing automated driving capabilities to enhancing system integration and vehicle security, the team has transformed complex engineering challenges into measurable progress. Each milestone, whether in adaptive cruise control, propulsion, or cybersecurity, reflects a commitment to pushing the limits of mobility technology.
Our technical subteam leads have been at the forefront of innovation, tackling complex challenges and turning ideas into reality. Let’s hear directly from them about this year’s biggest vehicle achievements and what it took to make them happen.
Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs)
The McMaster EcoCAR CAVs subteam has made significant progress in the development and testing of its adaptive cruise control (ACC) system. Throughout Year 2 and early Year 3, the team built and validated perception and control software through simulation, establishing a strong foundation for in-vehicle testing. Actuation checks enabled successful command of propulsion, steering, and braking with minimal errors, allowing for seamless ACC testing without integration challenges.
By mid-Year 3, the ACC algorithm was prepared for real-world trials. Low-speed parking lot tests in January demonstrated smooth and responsive performance with minimal calibration. By February, track tests at speeds of up to 100 km/h confirmed performance comparable to that of a stock vehicle. Additionally, in-vehicle testing with a simulated lead vehicle further validated system accuracy, allowing for early calibration refinements and performance enhancements.
These advancements were made possible through the support of General Motors, MathWorks, dSPACE, and Argonne National Laboratory (ANL), who provided essential resources for vehicle control, simulation, and system integration. General Motors played a key role by providing a stock vehicle for benchmarking, integration guidance, and access to a test track for validation. As development continues into Years 4, the team remains focused on further refining its algorithms and conducting ACC testing.
System Design and Integration (SDI)
The System Design and Integration (SDI) subteam has demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills and technical expertise in overcoming challenges and refining the McMaster LYRIQ throughout Year 3. The team successfully addressed key issues, including the removal of the front electronic drive unit and the redesign of the half shafts, ensuring improved performance and integration.
A strong commitment to innovation has been evident, with team members consistently developing and implementing new design solutions. Notably, the driver indicator board was redesigned using a printed circuit board (PCB) and a custom 3D-printed enclosure, enhancing both functionality and packaging efficiency.
Additionally, through collaboration with General Motors Canada, the team conducted extensive vehicle testing at the McLaughlin Advanced Technology Track, accumulating over 250 miles of driving (equivalent to 300+ laps). This achievement reflects the precision, craftsmanship, and dedication that define the SDI subteam’s approach to vehicle development and optimization.
Propulsion, Controls, and Modelling (PCM)
In Year 3, the PCM subteam made significant progress in software development, cybersecurity, and system testing, bringing the McMaster LYRIQ closer to full operational capability.
A major milestone was overcoming GM’s cybersecurity protections, enabling secure and reliable communication between GM’s electronic control modules and our custom controller. The team also implemented a comprehensive testing suite using MathWorks’ toolboxes, enhancing software validation, requirements tracking, and real-world simulation accuracy.
Collaboration with Enedym Inc., American Axle & Manufacturing (AAM), Sensata Technologies, and MARC provided crucial support in component testing and integration. The guidance of General Motors, MathWorks, and ANL has been instrumental in overcoming technical challenges and preparing the team for Year 3 competition.
Year 3 Recap and Year End Goals
As Year 3 of the EcoCAR EV Challenge comes to an end, our team has made significant strides in vehicle development and cross-disciplinary collaboration. From refining our propulsion system to enhancing technical integration, each subteam has played a crucial role in advancing our team’s progress.
During the Year 3 Competition, our team received a number of awards in various categories, taking home over $8,000 in prize money! These stand out awards included 2nd Place Overall Project Management, 1st Place Propulsion Controls & Modeling Presentation, Best EcoCAR Collaboration, 1st Place General Motors Women in STEM – Emma Martino, and 1st Place Vehicle Integration Quality – Sponsored by AAM.
This progress would not have been possible without the guidance of our mentors and the support of our generous sponsors. Their unwavering support, expertise, resources, and industry insights have been instrumental in advancing our technology, overcoming challenges, and preparing for competition.
As we approach the final stretch of the series, our team remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of vehicle innovation, strengthening our technical expertise and teamwork along the way. We are eager to build on these successes and elevate our vehicle to new heights. Stay tuned as we continue driving innovation forward!
