WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (WENY) -- Watkins Glen International played host to this year's edition of the Green Grand Prix -- where road-legal cars using alternative fuels took to the track.

Dozens of cars took to the track today but not to see who was fastest, but rather to see who could be the most efficient. Several colleges took part with their prospective auto technicians to compete in a motor racing and sustainability challenge.

It wasn't your typical race day at Watkins Glen International. Teams from several colleges across the region competed against each other not for the fastest lap time, but to be the most efficient on-track vehicle.

"You have to manage your fuel, manage your speed, and they all compete to get the best fuel economy for the vehicle in their particular class," said Robert Gillespie, the executive director of Green Grand Prix Corporation.

The objective to perform laps around WGI's short course as close to 45 miles per hour as possible. Telemetry data would also provide information on how efficient the cars are on track measured in miles per gallon.

"They average 45 miles per hour, this is a fuel economy and precision driving contest. Every lap had to be exactly 45 miles per hour. They get scored on how many perfect laps they have and also what their fuel economy was according to the class of vehicle that they drive," added Gillespie.

Dozens of college students and prospective auto technicians were in attendance. Several formula style cars were also able to take a shot at the autocross course outside the garages. Also making an appearance was track President Dawn Burlew and multiple dealership representatives from title sponsor Toyota.

"We learned about the need for technicians in the future that will be dealing with vehicles of this new generation we have of plug-in hybrids, electric vehicles and knows. There are other fuel sources also, and so it very much looks toward the future," said Gillespie following a lunchtime seminar.

Alternatively powered vehicles took to the track, ranging from sedans to SUVs and even trucks. The Green Grand Prix has been able to add an aspect of fun in finding a more sustainable motor racing environment.