The 2025 Formula One China Grand Prix, held in Shanghai last week, attracted a record-breaking crowd of over 220,000 spectators to the Shanghai International Circuit. Among the attendees was Ethan Kahn Firtanto, an Indonesian international student of the University of Michigan – Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI, JI hereafter), who seized the opportunity to immerse himself in the dynamic world of automotive culture during the event.
Ethan Kahn Firtanto (second from left) poses for a photo with his fellow students at the Shanghai International Circuit during the F1 event.
As part of the experience, Ethan participated in several immersive activities, including attending the thrilling F1 race and experiencing high-speed test drives at the SAIC Volkswagen testing grounds. He also explored the history of vintage cars, gaining insight into the evolution of automotive design while imagining the future of autonomous vehicles.
“The opportunity to explore the F1 Chinese Grand Prix was incredibly exciting,” said Ethan. “Stepping into the Shanghai International Circuit, I could almost hear the roar of the cars racing down the track. What made it even more special was our access to core areas, including the T16 Sprint Club, where we had an up-close look at the F1 safety car in action.”
Ethan also visited a state-of-the-art test track in Anting, where he experienced the thrill of racing at speeds of up to 160 km/h. “The speed and lateral G-forces were unforgettable,” he said. “This experience gave me a deeper appreciation for the engineering and innovation behind modern automotive design. It’s clear that Shanghai plays a pivotal role in the global automotive industry.”
Through his participation in these activities, Ethan not only explored Shanghai’s rich automotive culture but also gained valuable insights into the technological advancements shaping the future of the industry. His experience underscores JI’s commitment to offering students opportunities to engage with cutting-edge industries while fostering a deeper understanding of global technological trends.
