ECO-MARATHON ULM in Vichy

Flying challenge in energy performance & trade fair of driving energies

In order to develop the environmental efforts of Ultralight Motorized aviation in terms of consumption and atmospheric pollution the "ECO Marathon ULM" association will organize the first edition of a competition having for goal to develop capacities of flight by using the minimum of energy.
This event will take place in Vichy, France, on July 9th, 10th and 11th, 2010.

The target is to fly the largest distance burning energy as less as possible.
It integrates practical development and a competitive challenge with the values behind sustainable development, respect for a diversity of individuals, energy control and environmental protection.
Advanced technology and sciences found a terrain of experiment and application in aviation.
Renewable energy will take the main place in the aviation of the future. Advanced technology and sciences found a terrain of experiment and application in aviation.

Simple Rule

A very simple rule, aircraft must comply to the french ultralight aircraft regulation.
Following a pattern monitored by GPS, the fuel tank is fully refuelled when back from the test-flight and mesured.
See the official rules

Safety :

A GPS device on board recording the flight plan allow of a level and flight pattern.
The Vichy ultralight club and the french fédération (FFPLUM) manage the contest.
Radio on board allow to communicate instantly with ground’controls.

An international event :

All european teams are welcome.

Mediatization :

The Vichy city and urban area of Allier river support this event and welcome visitors.
TV, press and report will cover largely this event.
A press lobby is situated on Vichy-Charmeil airport. Vichy-Charmeil airport.

Vichy city, situated in the center of France gets a large airfield in a country area close to tourism accomodations.
Vichy is well known for horses’races, thermals’baths, health care equipments, sports’ training centers.
The city is involved in this contest organization as she is leading ecology spirit in France.

Objectives :

The objectives are:

• To encourage and foster innovation and ideas about fuel-efficiency and the future of modern transport 
• To help technical institutions
• To secure talent for their professional technical courses
• To promote technical careers among young people

Automotive energy dynamic fair :

During the contest, a static show is organized meeting actors of renewable energy sources applyied to automotives vehicules.