UPI Students Build Hydrogen Motorcycle Prototype to Advance Green Mobility Innovation
The hydrogen motorcycle prototype developed by students of the Automotive Engineering Education (PTO) Study Program at the Faculty of Engineering and Industrial Education (FPTI), Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI), marks a significant milestone in student-led innovation for clean and sustainable transportation. Supported by FPTI’s strong academic ecosystem, the project demonstrates how vocational engineering education can contribute to emerging green mobility technologies.
The prototype, internally named FCEV JAWARA but introduced publicly as a hydrogen fuel cell motorcycle, was developed through UPI’s Competitive Student Activity Unit (UKM Kompetitif UPI). The research process was supervised by PTO lecturers and strengthened through a strategic collaboration with the PLN Research and Development Center (PLN Puslitbang) in the PLN ICE 2024 national competition. This partnership exposed students to real engineering challenges in hydrogen energy systems, safety, and smart mobility applications.
Image 1. FCEV Jawara
Designed as a zero-emission vehicle, the hydrogen motorcycle showcases several advanced features. Powered by a next-generation fuel cell system, it can travel up to 428 km using only 2 liters of hydrogen, setting a remarkable efficiency benchmark for a student prototype. The motorcycle integrates hydrogen leak sensors, IoT-based real-time monitoring, GPS tracking, RFID security systems, and regenerative braking to optimize energy use. Its lightweight chassis, robust hydrogen safety management, and precise electrical integration further reflect the engineering capability and professionalism demonstrated by the student team.
Beyond its technical achievements, the hydrogen motorcycle represents the success of FPTI’s research-oriented learning environment. Students have 24-hour access to laboratories, industrial-standard workshops, and vehicle testing facilities. With structured academic mentoring and comprehensive administrative support, they are able to conduct end-to-end research from conceptual design and energy calculations to fabrication, assembly, and fuel cell system testing. This ecosystem reinforces a strong research culture that encourages innovation, safety, and adherence to engineering standards.
Image 2. FCEV JAWARA Team
The project directly supports several global sustainability targets:
SDG 4 – Quality Education: Through hands-on engineering research supported by advanced facilities.
SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy: By utilizing hydrogen as a clean and efficient energy source.
SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure: Through advancements in fuel cell systems and intelligent vehicle technologies.
SDG 11 & SDG 13 – Sustainable Cities and Climate Action: By promoting zero-emission mobility solutions needed for future urban transportation.
With this achievement, FPTI UPI reaffirms its commitment to preparing future engineers who can contribute to Indonesia’s transition toward sustainable transportation and renewable energy innovation. The hydrogen motorcycle prototype is not only a testament to the creativity and technical skill of UPI students but also an illustration of how applied research in vocational engineering programs can generate meaningful impact for a greener future.
(Editor: SN/MNH)
