School-built EVs race at Unitec on Saturday

Electric bikes and multi-wheel vehicles race off in the EVolocity Auckland regional finals at the Unitec Institute of Technology on October 14.

About 60 students from five schools will take part in the event at Mt Albert from 10am-4pm, competing in categories including drag race, street circuit and rolling resistance.

Winning teams go to the national finals on December 2 at the Christchurch A&P Showgrounds, as part of EVolocity’s Electric Wheels Festival.

Teams of high school students are given a 300-watt electric motor kit and batteries to build their vehicles.

They attend a series of build camps over several months where tutorials are delivered and the vehicle design and controls are reviewed and tested.

Tutorials include training in CAD software, structural and aerodynamic considerations, fabrication, welding, power electronics and performance testing.

The Auckland students will compete on a course around Mataaho,- Unitec’s new trades training facility.

Entries are judged on their performance, innovation, design and community awareness.

EVolocity aims to grow enrolments into tertiary STEM studies and trades training, while fostering awareness of more sustainable lifestyles by running an EV project-based learning programme for young people and communities.

Launched in Canterbury in 2014, it has become a nationwide event over the past three years.

“Students who have participated in EVolocity projects have not only developed an interest in mechanical and electrical engineering, but have also learnt how rewarding it can be to participate in and contribute to a practical project,” EVolocity Auckland facilitator Brent Bielby says.

Unitec engineering practice pathway head says many of the students involved in this competition have gone on to study either engineering or vehicle systems.

“Multidisciplinary events like this help to change the perception of trades by demonstrating the highly technical skillset and critical thinking that’s needed for a successful trades career.”