Formula Nano Team Members on a sunny day standing in front of University of Waterloo Quantum Nano Center

Our Next Nanocar Competition!

Formula Nano is gearing up to join the next International Nanocar Race, an event where teams from around the world control molecule-sized “cars” to compete on the nanoscale!

We’re excited to take on the challenge, meet the race’s unique criteria, and showcase to the world our own molecular-vehicle designs, made with precision and innovation.

Stay tuned as we share updates on our progress—this is just the beginning!

Competition Rules

Here are the rules from the Second International Nanocar Race in Toulouse that we are preparing to follow for our own participation in the next competition:

  • Remote Control: All teams will remotely control their nanocars from Toulouse.
  • Sponsorship: Each team should have at least one sponsor to support their race expenses.
  • Mechanical Assistance: No mechanical push is allowed during the race.
  • Vehicle Flexibility: Molecule-vehicles may be changed during the race.
  • Racing Surfaces: Set by the organization committee.
  • Weather Conditions: Racing will occur in ambient and/or LT-UHV conditions.
  • Outreach: Team leaders or pilots should be ready for media activities (press, TV, web).

Day 1: Ambient Nanocar Race

  • Duration: 4 hours.
  • Vehicle Specifications: Molecule-vehicles must range from approximately 100 to 1,000 atoms and have a distinguishable front and rear.
  • Race Circuits: Courses will be tailored for both speed-focused nanocars and molecule-trucks carrying a molecular load.
  • Prize Criteria: The vehicle covering the maximum distance within 4 hours wins!
six different nanocars

Day 2: LT-UHV Nanocar Race

  • Duration: 4 hours.
  • Vehicle Classes: Two classes accepted – classical (wheels and motor) or quantum motors.
  • Specifications: Molecule-vehicles must also range from around 100 to 1,000 atoms and have identifiable front and rear.
  • Race Circuits: Slalom circuits for speed and straight-line tracks for molecule-trucks carrying molecular loads.
  • Prize Criteria: The vehicle covering the greatest distance in 24 hours will be declared the winner!
Car and molecule combination picture

For more details and to catch all the action, check out the official rules for Nanocar Race II here

Want to Help?

Join Us

Interested in what we’re doing? Be part of our innovative team, pushing the boundaries of nanotechnology!

Apply Now

Sponsor Us

Excited about the future of nanotechnology and helping students? Your support helps us drive innovation, research, and allows us to push the limits of what’s possible at the nanoscale.

Learn More