School-Built Electric Vehicles Battle It Out on Unitec Course at Evolocity Regional Finals
11, October 2017 — Electric bikes and multi-wheel vehicles will be in action at the EVolocity Auckland regional finals
hosted by Unitec Institute of Technology on Saturday, October 14.
EVolocity aims to grow enrolments into tertiary STEM studies and trades training, while fostering awareness of more
sustainable lifestyles by running an electric vehicle project-based learning programme for young people and communities.
The pilot programme launched in Canterbury in 2014 and has grown to become a nationwide event over the past three years.
Participants gain knowledge, skills and passion in the areas of design, engineering and electronics, preparing them for
21st century careers and empowering them to help create a more sustainable future through clean transportation.
Brent Bielby, EVolocity facilitator for Auckland, said: “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.”
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.
Around 60 Auckland students from 5 different schools will take part in the Auckland regional finals on Saturday,
competing in categories including drag race, street circuit and rolling resistance. They will compete on a course around
Mataaho, Unitec’s new trades training facility. Entries are judged on their performance, innovation, design and
community awareness.
Melanie Ooi, Head of Practice Pathway, Engineering at Unitec, said: “EVolocity attracts sharp, motivated students who
are exactly the type of person we want to study at Unitec. Many of the students who have been involved in this
competition in the past 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.”
“We’re delighted to be hosting the regional finals of EVolocity and showcasing our new state-of-the-art trades training
facility, Mataaho”.
The winning teams will go forward to the national finals being held in Christchurch at the end of November.
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