ESTACA Students Honored at the SIA Powertrain Conference
ESTACA made a name for itself at the SIA Powertrain 2026 conference thanks to two student projects: HYCE, from the iDrogen association, won second prize in the Student Poster Challenge, while the ESTACA FORMULA TEAM showcased its latest single-seater
This conference brought together several hundred technical experts, industry professionals, researchers, and students in Lille to discuss the future of powertrain technologies and address the key challenges and opportunities shaping the future of mobility. As part of the event, ESTACA students were invited to present their vehicle projects and particularly stood out during the Student Poster Challenge and the exhibition held on the sidelines of the event.
Another Success for the HYCE Project
The HYCE project by the iDrogen Lavalloise association won second prize in the Student Poster Challenge following a presentation in English before a jury of automotive experts. This marks yet another recognition following the award won at the Grand Challenge 2026 organized by L’Usine Nouvelle for engineering schools. This project focuses on converting an existing internal combustion engine (Renault’s MR18 engine) into a hydrogen engine. It aims to demonstrate the viability of hydrogen as a carbon-free fuel for motorsports, with the long-term goal of setting a record on the Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit. Currently in the design and modeling phase, the project impressed the jury with its technical rigor and innovative nature.
It is worth noting that first prize was awarded to an ESTACA alumna for her hydrogen-powered aircraft engine project.
The ESTACA Formula Team showcases its latest single-seater
The conference also provided an opportunity for the ESTACA Formula Team (EFT) to present its latest single-seater, the EC05 Evo. Visitors were able to discover the students’ expertise and discuss with team members the technical challenges involved in designing a competition vehicle. This presentation comes just a few weeks before the Formula Student competitions in Spain and Croatia, in which the team will participate this summer.
Through these projects and their visibility among industry professionals, ESTACA students are once again demonstrating their ability to innovate and actively contribute to the advancement of technologies for the mobility of tomorrow.
