Michelin’s 10th annual Challenge Bibendum is going on through June 3 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Initiated by the tire maker in 1998, the event brings together car, truck, bus and motorcycle manufacturers, academics, energy suppliers, research institutes, government authorities and other organizations to discuss the issues and challenges involved in implementing sustainable mobility.
This year marks the program’s South American debut; Brazil was selected because of the nation’s long commitment to finding alternatives to fossil fuels, according to the company.
The nearly 80 vehicles taking part are divided into three categories. Cars will drive from Rio de Janeiro to Petropolis north of the city, while trucks and buses will travel from Rio to Resende west of the city, and urban vehicles will be driven near the Riocentro Convention and Exhibition Center
Acceleration, noise and handling tests will demonstrate the low carbon emissions achievable by using certain types of biofuels, such as ethanol made from sugar cane, plus the benefits of electric vehicles.
During the five-day event, about 4,500 guests and participants will have the opportunity to talk with each other, meet international sustainable mobility experts and take part in the testing procedures.
For more information, visit www.michelinchallengebibendum.com.
