From the SAE International website, the SAE International Clean Snowmobile Challenge (CSC) program is an engineering design competition for undergraduate and graduate students. The program provides participants with the opportunity to enhance their engineering design and project management skills by applying learned classroom theories in a challenging competition that tests their designs to reengineer an existing snowmobile to reduce emissions and noise. Participants’ modified snowmobiles will compete in a variety of events including emissions, noise, fuel economy/endurance, acceleration, handling, static display, cold start and design.

The CSC Rules Committee makes changes to the competition each year to keep the competition fresh and to present new engineering challenges. CSC is primarily an "engine" competition however the underlying theme has remained consistent to engineer a clean and quiet trail sled. Current trail sleds are engineered to these standards, but it is possible to achieve more. Noise levels can be reduced, and cleaner fuels can lead to lower emissions.

There are two categories in the Internal Combustion in which teams can compete: gasoline or diesel. The intent of the competition is to develop a snowmobile that is acceptable for use in environmentally sensitive areas such as our National Parks or other pristine areas. The modified snowmobiles are expected to be quiet and emit significantly less unburned hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide than current production snowmobiles, without significantly increasing oxides of nitrogen emissions. Since higher, more noticeable emission particles are also a characteristic of diesel engines, there will be an additional emissions requirement for controlling soot. The modified snowmobiles are also expected to be cost-effective and comfortable for the operator to drive. The intent of the competition is to design a touring snowmobile that will primarily be ridden on groomed snowmobile trails. Modern snowmobiles are engineered to meet the current standards for noise and emissions. Teams are expected to add innovative solutions for improving on the performance of the base sled that they start with. Design judges (written and verbal) will be looking for innovations and incorporating that into their scores.

SAE International's Collegiate Design Series (CDS) programs prepare undergraduate and graduate engineering students in a variety of disciplines for future employment in mobility-related industries by challenging them with a real world, engineering application.

Through the Engineering Design Process, experiences may include but not limited to:

• Project management, budgeting, communication, and resource management skills

• Team collaboration

• Applying industry rules and regulations

• Design, build, and test the performance of a real vehicle

• Compete with other students from around the globe

• Develop and prepare technical documentation

Students also gain valuable exposure to and engagement with industry professionals to enhance 21st century learning skills, to build their own network and help prepare them for the workforce after graduation.