The 10th Riviera Electric Challenge, held on November 13 and 14, celebrated a decade of promoting sustainable mobility and international collaboration. This unique event, traversing Monaco, France, and Italy, brought together 25 electric vehicles to highlight the advancements in electromobility and encourage environmentally conscious driving.
A New Route for a Milestone Edition
Marking its 10th anniversary, the 2024 challenge reversed its traditional course. For the first time, participants started their journey at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco and finished at the Château Grimaldi in Cagnes-sur-Mer. This symbolic switch underscored the event’s roots in both Monaco and the French Riviera while adding a fresh twist to its legacy.
Over two days, drivers covered more than 200 kilometers of scenic, challenging routes, including mountainous terrain in the Nice hinterland and picturesque stops in Italian villages such as Dolceacqua and the city of Ventimiglia. The emphasis on eco-driving, where participants minimized energy consumption and maximized energy recovery, demonstrated the practical benefits of electric vehicles on diverse terrains.
Challenges Beyond Driving
Beyond the road, the event offered unique challenges to test participants’ knowledge and adaptability. A quiz on regional heritage emphasized the cultural significance of the areas travelled , while a MOBELEC-themed test highlighted innovations in charging infrastructure and solutions showcased at the EVER Monaco event. An electric bike segment further diversified the competition, showcasing alternative modes of green transportation.
Collaboration Across Borders
The Riviera Electric Challenge underscored the importance of cross-border cooperation. Monaco City Hall, the Nice-Côte d’Azur Metropolis, and the municipalities of Cagnes-sur-Mer, Dolceacqua, and other towns played active roles by entering vehicles and supporting the event.
Triumphs and Results
The competition culminated with Iwan Prot and Philippe Terranova, representing Monaco City Hall, taking the top prize in a Kia Niro EV. Close behind were teams from Monaco and Cagnes-sur-Mer, with Renault Zoé vehicles dominating the rankings. The friendly rivalry reflected the spirit of the event: fostering innovation, teamwork, and sustainable practices.
A Platform for Progress
Founded in 2015 by H.E. Bernard Fautrier and Louis Nègre, the Riviera Electric Challenge has evolved into more than just a rally. It has become a platform for dialogue and exchange, inspiring communities and organizations to adopt green mobility solutions. As the event celebrated its 10th anniversary, its success reaffirmed the growing relevance of sustainable transportation in a world increasingly focused on reducing carbon footprints.