Experiential learning: AUS engineering students create eco-friendly model cars

Future engineers and computer scientists at the American University of Sharjah (AUS) College of Engineering (CEN) recently put their skills to the test in the 27th NGN Competition, an exciting tradition where first-year CEN students showcased their innovative and eco-friendly car designs. This semester’s competition featured 670 students organized into 128 teams, each challenged to construct a motor-powered model car controlled by an Arduino microcontroller, using recycled or sustainable materials. The objective was to create a vehicle that balanced speed, weight and driving precision, reflecting both sustainability and advanced engineering concepts.

All first-year CEN students are required to take the course NGN 110 Introduction to Computing and Engineering, which emphasizes teamwork, problem-solving, design processes, professional ethics, sustainability and other essential areas. The NGN Competition is a key component of this course, held each semester to challenge students to implement the skills and concepts they have learned.

The winning team, which achieved the highest specific speed of 4.71 points based on the competition’s regulations, comprised Abdelrahman Hatem Abdelsamad, a computer science student; Turki Khalid Algarawi, a mechanical engineering student; Mohammed Balkis, a computer science student; Basem Mohammad Noor Elalami, a digital construction engineering and management student; and Yehia Amr Abouelela, a computer engineering student.

“Our journey to first place was fueled by teamwork, creativity and countless hours perfecting our Arduino car design. This win isn’t just about the trophy; it’s about the dedication and passion each team member brought to the project,” said Balkis 

Dr. Fadi Aloul, Dean of the College of Engineering, underscored the value of this experience: “The NGN Competition embodies the essence of experiential learning at AUS. Our students not only develop technical expertise but also embrace sustainability, ethical engineering practices and 21st century soft skills that will be crucial for their future careers. Watching their ideas come to life through this competition is truly inspiring.”

Aqeel Ahmed, Professor of Practice in Civil Engineering and event organizer, emphasized the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration: “The competition builds students' confidence in working within multidisciplinary engineering teams. In the NGN 110 course, students learn how engineers collaborate and communicate with individuals from various specialties, a skill that greatly benefits them as they embark on their real-world journeys. I encourage students to grow with the strong roots of AUS and shine with integrity, excellence and service to the world—you will make a difference as AUSers.”

The projects were evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges, including Dr. Bayan Hamdan, Assistant Professor in the Department of Industrial Engineering; Dr. Karnail Singh, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering; Dr. Ming Foey Teng, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Electrical Engineering; and Dr. Mousa Attom, Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering. 

As a leading institution in engineering education and research, AUS College of Engineering offers a wide range of programs, including 10 bachelor's, 10 master's and 2 PhD programs. To know more about the college offerings, visit www.aus.edu/cen.