Formula LAM Hits 408 km/L at Shell Eco-marathon 2026

The team travelled to the Silesia Ring in Kamień Śląski, Poland, to compete in the Shell Eco-marathon 2026. After arriving, the crew completed registration and the safety briefing, set up the paddock, and pitched camp for the week. Extreme temperatures shaped the whole event. With over 40°C in the paddock tent, organisers moved the daily schedule earlier and shortened track and working times throughout the competition. Scrutineering was slowed by the heat and long queues, and the first day passed without any test running. Once the car cleared its technical inspection, the team completed its first test laps but ran into a communication fault on one run and engine-starting problems on another. This year the car also ran an electronic fuel meter for the first time, measuring fuel use during the drive to simplify consumption analysis. The scoring runs brought further challenges. The engine management struggled with false air in the intake, and a later strategic error left the team six seconds over the maximum 22-minute lap time, invalidating that run. Shell officials also identified a fault in the car's fuel meter, which was replaced at midday alongside adjustments to the fuel lines, and the crew re-set a stiff steering system. Despite the repairs and the heat, morale stayed high, with barbecues and evenings at the campsite. The team's informatics group also developed a new smartphone and computer app that let supporters follow the car live on track, displaying telemetry such as GPS position, engine data, lap times, and fuel consumption. The effort paid off on the final morning. After an early 5:30 start to secure a good grid position, the team improved its result to 408 km/L on its second run — the highlight of the weekend. With the paddock and campsite cleared and all equipment loaded, the team set off for home, stopping overnight in Erfurt before arriving back at the LAM the following afternoon.