On March 6, 2025, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education (HCMUTE) held the launching ceremony for Smart EV Racing 2025, a competition designed for students passionate about and innovative in the field of smart electric vehicles.
Smart EV Racing 2025 Launching Ceremony
The event was attended by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chau Dinh Thanh – Vice President of HCMUTE, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hoang An Quoc – Deputy Head of the Faculty of Vehicle and Energy Engineering and Deputy Head of the Organizing Committee, along with representatives from the Office of Science and Technology, the Enterprise Relations Office, the Youth Union, the Alumni Association, and numerous faculty members and students passionate about technology.
Smart EV Racing is an annual competition organized by HCMUTE to provide an advanced academic platform for students interested in electric vehicle technology. Over the years, the competition has continuously evolved and expanded, becoming one of the most prominent events in Vietnam in the field of smart electric vehicles. The 2025 edition marks a significant milestone as the competition expands to an international level, attracting teams from Thailand.
In his speech, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chau Dinh Thanh emphasized:
“Smart EV Racing 2025 is not just a technical competition but also an opportunity for students to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, honing their skills in design, programming, control, and optimization of smart transportation systems.”
He also highlighted this year’s major improvements, particularly the international expansion with the participation of Thai teams, fostering academic exchange between students from different countries.
“I believe that with creativity, determination, and relentless effort, students will make Smart EV Racing 2025 more than just a competition—it will be a significant milestone in their personal and professional growth, opening new opportunities in smart transportation and technology.”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chau Dinh Thanh delivering his speech
Notable Enhancements in Smart EV Racing 2025
Compared to previous editions, Smart EV Racing 2025 introduces several noteworthy updates. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hoang An Quoc, Deputy Head of the Faculty of Vehicle and Energy Engineering and Deputy Head of the Organizing Committee, shared that this year’s competition challenges are designed to be more diverse and realistic. In addition to the usual segments, new obstacles such as an autonomous tunnel have been added alongside the broken bridge challenge, requiring teams to enhance their control algorithms to navigate complex terrains smoothly.
Furthermore, the vehicle size regulations are now more stringent, and a signaling system (signal lights) has become a mandatory requirement, improving the competition’s real-world applicability. These enhancements make this year’s contest a true test of programming, control, and smart electric vehicle design.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hoang An Quoc discussing new challenges in this year’s competition
International Teams and Greater Competitive Spirit
One of the highlights of this year’s competition is the participation of international teams from Thailand, competing against strong teams from HCMUTE, one of the top contenders in the event. Facing international competitors not only helps HCMUTE students strengthen their competitive mindset but also offers them the chance to exchange knowledge and learn from countries with advanced electric vehicle industries.
Beyond being a contest, Smart EV Racing 2025 serves as an opportunity for HCMUTE students to access cutting-edge technologies while receiving mentorship from experts, faculty members, and top enterprises in the electric vehicle industry. According to the Organizing Committee, this year’s competition will feature thrilling matches, attractive prizes, and extensive career networking opportunities for students. The grand finale is scheduled for July 20, 2025, promising an intense showdown among the strongest teams to crown the ultimate champion.
Official launch button-pressing ceremony
Smart EV Racing 2025 is not just a competition—it represents a significant step in HCMUTE’s practical training approach, reaffirming the university’s pioneering role in promoting research, innovation, and sustainability in electric vehicle technology and smart transportation.