UNDIP, Semarang (May 20, 2025) – Behind the spotlight of energy-efficient vehicle competitions lies a youthful spirit that refuses to dim. Antawirya, the research and innovation team of mechanical engineering students from the Faculty of Engineering at Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP), has become a living testament to the dreams of the nation’s youth in creating efficient, eco-friendly, and sustainable transportation solutions focused on energy-efficient vehicle technology.
The name Antawirya may already be familiar, especially within the UNDIP community. Year after year, the team makes headlines for its participation in energy-efficient car competitions, proudly raising the Indonesian flag on international stages. Yet behind the trophies and titles lies a deeper story of perseverance—one not just about speed or fuel economy.
Few know the late nights spent crafting ultra-light vehicles from balsa wood, experimenting with self-assembled semi-automatic transmissions, or the non-technical team’s tireless efforts knocking on doors for sponsorships—to bring their dream vehicle to life on the world stage.
Formed in 2013, Antawirya has participated in both national and international competitions, including the Energy-Efficient Car Contest (Kontes Mobil Hemat Energi / KMHE) and Shell Eco-Marathon (SEM). With a vision of reducing vehicle carbon emissions and building a healthier environment, the team aims to develop sustainable transportation technologies and fuel-efficient vehicles across both Prototype and Urban Concept categories, using energy sources such as gasoline, electricity, and biofuels.
Speaking on UNDIP TV’s podcast, General Manager of Antawirya Team, Haikal Aulya Rahman, alongside Non-Technical Manager Anton Ramadhona Sukma Putra, shared that the 2024/2025 Antawirya team consists of 29 members united under the shared motto: “One vision, work together, be champion.”
“Currently, the team is composed of 29 members split between technical and non-technical divisions, continuously innovating and working together to bring pride to UNDIP on the global stage,” Haikal said.
“We are divided into two core divisions: the technical team focuses on vehicle development, while the non-technical team handles logistics, funding, and publicity behind the scenes,” Anton added.
The name “Antawirya” is taken from the title of Prince Diponegoro, a national hero known for his courage, strength, and resilience—qualities that form the foundation of the team’s sustainable automotive technology development. “We draw inspiration from that spirit in our mission to create environmentally friendly solutions. Our vision is simple yet strong: to reduce transportation emissions for a healthier future through energy-efficient vehicles built by Indonesian youth,” Haikal said.
The team’s success stems from strong collaboration. This synergy has led to the creation of two standout vehicles: Gentayu and Rondhan. “Gentayu, inspired by Prince Diponegoro’s favorite black horse with four white legs, was designed to resemble an everyday urban car. It runs on a modified 110cc Honda internal combustion engine and uses carbon fiber and balsa wood in its construction,” Haikal explained.
Rondhan, named after the prince’s legendary weapon, is a fully electric vehicle with a lightweight and efficient design. “Weighing just 26 kg, Rondhan features an ultra-light balsa wood body. It represents the future: efficient, durable, and eco-friendly,” Anton added.
The Antawirya team continues to innovate—from aerodynamic body design that reduces air resistance to smart energy management systems that boost efficiency. The use of sustainable, lightweight materials is a top priority, especially as electric vehicle development plays a key role in their long-term goals.
“Our innovation goes beyond just technology; it’s also about having the courage to think differently—from low-drag design to intelligent energy systems and materials that maximize efficiency,” said Haikal.
The team’s hard work and innovation have led to numerous prestigious accolades. Antawirya has earned awards in the KMHE, organized by Indonesia’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek) through the Indonesian Talent Development Center (Balai Pengembangan Talenta Indonesia/ BPTI), and has competed in the Shell Eco-Marathon Asia, standing shoulder to shoulder with teams from around the world. The team also received a special award for best technical innovation.
“At KMHE 2024, we took first place in the Urban Internal Combustion Engine (Gasoline) category with Gentayu, achieving 480 km/L efficiency, and second place in the Electric Prototype category with Rondhan, which reached an impressive 869 km/kWh,” Haikal said.
Antawirya has also made Indonesia proud internationally. At the 2025 Shell Eco-Marathon Asia Pacific and Middle East in Lusail International Circuit, Qatar, Rondhan won first place in the Prototype Electric Vehicle category with an efficiency of 835 km/kWh. Gentayu claimed second in the Urban ICE category with 414.68 km/L. Even more impressively, the team won second place in the Off-Track Technical Innovation Award for their “Manumatic Dog Clutch” transmission system, which reduces drag losses and enhances power efficiency.
The Shell Eco-Marathon is a prestigious global competition that challenges student teams to develop vehicles that travel the farthest using the least amount of energy. “The event hosted 63 teams from 14 countries, and we’re proud to have represented Indonesia,” Anton said.
“We believe the future of mobility depends on sustainable innovation. That’s why Antawirya is preparing to compete again in KMHE 2025, scheduled for October in Surabaya, as well as the Shell Eco-Marathon 2025 in Qatar,” Haikal added.
The team’s achievements would not be possible without the dedicated mentorship of Dr.-Ing. Ir. Paryanto, S.T., M.T., IPM., ASEAN Eng., who has guided the team from early research stages through competition. Support from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, UNDIP leadership, and external sponsors and partners have also fueled their journey.
Antawirya team’s mission extends beyond competitions. The team aspires to play a role in shaping the future of automotive technology in Indonesia. With a strong research and innovation spirit, they aim to inspire future generations to develop better transportation solutions. (Public Communication/UNDIP/DHW)
