The roar of racing cars
ignited the spring in Shanghai
From March 13 to 15
The 2026 F1 Chinese Grand Prix
was held at the Shanghai International Circuit
Behind the speed and passion
There was a group of warm figures
Quietly guarding every corner of the venue
53 student volunteers from various schools of Tongji University, known as “Xiao Qing Ning”,
Provided full support for the 2026 F1 Shanghai Grand Prix with enthusiasm and professional service
From campus to race track
From classroom to post
They showcased the style and responsibility of Tongji youth in this international top-tier event
Outside the paddock
A formula racing car independently designed and built by Tongji students
Made a stunning appearance
Attracting the attention of global racing fans
Professional Support, Youth on Site
Efficiently guiding crowds, patiently answering questions, working seamlessly with the team, ensuring the event through meticulous and steadfast service… Tongji “Xiao Qing Ning” volunteers were active in multiple areas, including spectator guidance, event information consultation, media assistance, VIP reception, ticketing, and venue operations support.
Among this team, there were veterans who had served continuously for years. Some had been dedicated for three years, starting from undergraduate service at the stands, and had now grown into team leaders for pit lane visit activities; others participated for the second time, unlocking new volunteer experiences in different roles. Chen Yihong, serving for the second time, felt his growth: “From following to taking initiative, compared to the nervousness of the first participation, this year I have more calmness and proficiency.”
Many “Xiao Qing Ning” were already familiar faces in large event services. Various volunteer experiences made them more composed and confident. Among them, Zhang Ziyu from the School of Law had previously served as a “Xiao Jiang Tun” at the Pujiang Innovation Forum and a “Xiao Ye Zi” at two editions of the CIIE, and now unlocked the new identity of F1’s “Xiao Qing Ning,” successfully collecting three major event volunteer labels. “I feel like I’m collecting badges,” she joked. “I hope to let friends from all over the world feel the enthusiasm and professionalism of Chinese youth through this volunteer activity.”
The dedication of volunteer service was hidden in every detail. Tongji “Xiao Qing Ning” actively optimized routes for shuttle dispatch; ticket and gift counter volunteers prepared multilingual reminder cards; volunteers at the energy center service booth carried power banks and band-aids, acting as “caring support” for all spectators…
“Volunteer service is never a one-way effort, but a two-way journey.” Qu Yanbo, who served at the departure tax refund counter, shared: “I was honored to help racing fans from all over the world. Every successful transaction and every sincere thank-you made me realize the meaning of volunteer service.”
Tongji University actively participates in the volunteer service of the F1 Chinese Grand Prix. Since 2024, it has continuously organized student volunteers to serve the event, and has now participated for three consecutive years, dispatching more than 170 volunteers in total.
Tongji Cars, Hardcore Debut
More than just volunteer service. This year, the School of Automotive and Energy of Tongji University, together with its student formula racing teams, landed at the F1 Shanghai Grand Prix. A special exhibition area called “Tongji Racing Engine” was created at the “Dream Carnival Theme Park” in the Water Plaza of the Shanghai International Circuit, becoming a unique scenery outside the F1 paddock.
The core of the exhibition showcased the TR25 formula car, the DRe24 electric formula car, and the DRd25 driverless electric formula car, all independently designed and built by Tongji University students for the 2025 season.
The TR25 car from the Yi Chi Racing Team features a full carbon fiber monocoque body and an independently designed electronically controlled anti-roll system, showcasing ultimate speed and cutting-edge technology. It won the first prize and the high-speed autocross championship at the 2025 Chinese Collegiate Formula Car Competition.
The DRe24 car from the electric racing team continues the four-motor drive layout, aiming for the fastest and most stable performance. It explores metal 3D printing for lightweighting, integrates ultrasonic welding technology and modular wiring harness, combining superior aerodynamic performance with overall vehicle stability. This car won the fastest lap award in the endurance event at the 2024 Chinese Collegiate Formula Electric Competition.
The DRd25 car from the Tongji driverless racing team has undergone innovative driverless transformation, achieving topologically optimized steering and drive, with a complete simulation and testing process, showcasing its R&D strength in intelligent driving. This car won the Best System Design Award at the 2025 Chinese Collegiate Formula Driverless Competition.
From classroom knowledge to track practice, from traditional fuel to intelligent electric, every car on the exhibition stand is a microcosm of Tongji University’s promotion of the “digital, green, and integrated” development of the automotive industry. Here, visitors can closely experience the technological innovation and craftsmanship of young Chinese automotive professionals, witness the deep integration of university research outcomes and automotive industry development, and appreciate the new possibilities for the future of China’s automotive field.
“Xiao Qing Ning” with warm smiles
Guard the temperature of the venue
“Tongji Racing Engine” with hardcore strength
Drives the speed of the future
On the stage of F1
Tongji people interpret the same passion in different ways
Their steps always move forward
Source: Publicity Department, Communist Youth League Committee
School of Automotive and Energy
Editor: Chen Shaoying
Editor-in-charge: Nie Yangyang