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History - 1999 Ethanol Vehicle Challenge

The objective of the competition was to convert a stock 1999 Chevy Silverado from gasoline to E85 power. Fourteen university student teams from across the United States and Canada received 1999 four-wheel-drive Chevrolet Silverados to kick off the 1999 Ethanol Vehicle Challenge. With the ethanol knowledge gained from the 1998 EVC, Waterloo was able to implement new and existing technologies to convert the 5.3L, V-8, Gen. III engine to run on ethanol.

The teams spent six months adapting their trucks to run on E-85, a blend of 85% denatured ethanol and 15% gasoline. The goal was to build a vehicle with high fuel efficiency and lower emissions, but without sacrificing performance or consumer acceptability. The teams then met in May for several days of comprehensive vehicle testing at the GM Proving Grounds in Michigan, followed by a publicity trip which ended in Springfield, Illinois.

Waterloo's focus on emissions was rewarded when we achieved LEV standards, winning "Lowest Engine-Out Emissions" in the competition.

Ethanol Vehicle Challenge 1999

1999 Ethanol Vehicle Challenge

  • Fourth Place Overall

  • Lowest Engine-Out Emissions

  • Best Design Presentation

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