MITO supports EVolocity secondary school programme

EVolocity encourages secondary school student teams to design and build an electric vehicle – then race them in regional and national finals.

MITO is backing Evolicity’s 2018 programme

“We are focused on increasing the human infrastructure required for the widespread adoption of EVs in New Zealand,” MITO chief executive Janet Lane says. That will enable automotive technicians to safely inspect, service and repair EVs.

“By aligning with the EVolocity programme we are raising awareness of opportunities in the automotive industry and helping to prepare youth for an EV future.”

EVolocity executive director Rob McEwen says it has three key purposes. “First, it’s about turning more young people onto the joys of engineering, to help address our national skills shortage in this area. Second, it’s about making the next generation of drivers comfortable with electric vehicle technology, and educating them about the environmental and economic benefits of EVs. And third, it’s about giving young people a practical way to engage with sustainability and climate change.”

The vehicle has to be either a bike or a vehicle with three or more wheels.

In the standard class, the vehicles will be powered by EVolocity’s 350W electric motor, controller and two 12V gel cells. The open class can use up to a 1kW motor and 48V battery. Innovation is encouraged as students strive to make their vehicle the fastest with the least drag and be able to cope with a tight street circuit.

The programme was formed in 2014, with 16 teams from 11 schools in the Canterbury region. It has expanded to more than 100 teams across Auckland, Waikato, Wellington, Nelson and Canterbury.

Visit evolocity.co.nz for more information.