WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (WENY) -- The Toyota Green Grand Prix returned to Watkins Glen International this year, but the focus wasn’t on speed. Instead, it centered around fuel efficiency. College students from local auto tech programs participated in this unique event, which challenged them to maintain a speed of 47 miles per hour around the racetrack.

"It's a time-speed-distance event where drivers are instructed to drive a specific speed, 47 miles per hour, for about an hour and a half," explained Robert Gillespie, Executive Director of the Green Grand Prix Corporation. "We score them on the number of perfect laps they have, which is within plus or minus one second of that perfect speed, and we also measure their fuel economy."

Around ten different auto tech schools took part, including students Jason and Xander from Corning Community College. They described the event as a true test but in a fun way, allowing them to hone essential skills in suspension work and hybrid systems for the best fuel mileage.

"We're out here trying to get the best gas mileage on the track in the Glen," said Jason, an automotive tech student. "It's fun, not about speed, but just about being efficient with our foot on the pedal, not turning anything crazy."

In preparation for their two-hour track session, instructors dedicated several weeks to teaching students how to maximize every drop of fuel. highlighted the importance of the course:

"I am teaching a seven-week program on hybrids and EVs, so students learn to become service technicians for these vehicles," shared Jason Kellogg, Director of Automotive Trades at Corning Community College. "They learn safety aspects, how to drive them, and how to service and repair high-voltage batteries."

Kellogg says he hopes that students would leave with a greater appreciation for technology and a willingness to work in a rapidly changing field. The event also served as a final exam for Corning Community College students in the automotive program.

Organizers hope to inspire students to remain in the area and pursue careers in clean energy industries through the annual Green Grand Prix.