BAJA SAEINDIA, a pinnacle in collegiate engineering design competitions organized by SAEINDIA, has launched its 2024 season with a virtual round at Chitkara University. This event, renowned for showcasing the ingenuity of aspiring engineers, involves the conceptualization, design, modeling, analysis, manufacturing, validation, and competition of single-seater All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV). With a substantial participation of 164 teams this year, the competition is divided into three challenging phases, each surpassing the complexity of the previous one.

The virtual format has expanded the competition's reach, enabling the participation of international teams, amplifying the event's global impact. Under the theme "Multiverse of Mobility," BAJA SAEINDIA aims to diversify and broaden the scope of the competition. It seeks to empower students with the skills necessary to navigate diverse challenges, gain technical expertise, and transform into professionals ready for the dynamic workplace landscape. The alumni of BAJA SAEINDIA are now employed by major automakers worldwide.

In line with a vision for a smarter, safer, and sustainable future, BAJA SAEINDIA is exploring innovative solutions, including hydrogen-based internal combustion engines in the hBAJA category. To facilitate the transition, CNG-based bi-fuel injected engines have been introduced for the 2024 season. Additionally, in response to evolving technology trends such as ADAS & AI, a new category, aBAJA (Autonomous BAJA), has been introduced.

The Virtual Round of BAJA SAEINDIA 2024 commenced with a press conference hosted by Chitkara University, where Mr. I V Rao, Chair of SAEINDIA EEB, and Distinguished Fellow at TERI, delivered the welcome address.

Dr. K C Vora, Advisor, BAJA SAEINDIA, and Professor of Practice at Chitkara University emphasized the competition's role in shaping the next generation of Mobility Engineers. He highlighted BAJA SAEINDIA as a vital bridge between the industry and academia, providing students with a simulated environment to develop technical and non-technical skills.

Chitkara University, a longstanding supporter and partner of BAJA SAEINDIA, has been the host institute for the Virtual BAJA SAEINDIA for six consecutive years. Dr. Madhu Chitkara, Pro-Chancellor at Chitkara University, expressed pride in the ongoing collaboration, aligning with the university's commitment to fostering skilled engineers, promoting innovation, and contributing to India's automotive landscape.

Ms. Armelle Guerin, Vice-President, Software & ADAS at Renault Nissan Technology and Business Centre India, emphasized the significance of diversity within BAJA SAEINDIA and the broader mobility industry. Renault Nissan Tech is offering a unique award for the Top All-Girls' Team, promoting equal opportunities and encouraging the participation of female engineers.

The Virtual Round spans three days from December 1st to 3rd, 2023, featuring events such as Virtual Sales, Go Green, Virtual Dynamic Maneuverability, Virtual Design Evaluation, Cost Event, and Virtual Dynamic All-Terrain Performance.

The Third Phase of BAJA SAEINDIA 2024 will take place at distinct locations, showcasing mBAJA and hBAJA in January 2024 at NATRAX, Pithampur. In March 2024, eBAJA will be held at BV Raju Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, and the grand culmination is anticipated in June 2024 at ARAI’s Takwe near Pune, where aBAJA will bring the competition to its zenith. These strategic venues promise technical excellence and spirited competition, highlighting the event's pivotal role in shaping the future of mobility.