Community support was critical to the success of an east Auckland school’s debut entry in a national competition that involved designing, building and competing in an electric kart.
The Macleans College team came third overall, and also third in three separate sub-categories, in the northern regional finals of EVolocity at Hampton Downs contested by Auckland secondary and intermediate schools in October.
EVolocity’s electric vehicle competition showcases the next generation of sustainable technology innovators in New Zealand.
A national charity, EVolocity says it has been empowering young Kiwis since 2014, says chief executive, Jason Maraku.
“Behind every one of these electric vehicles is a story of a student team solving complex problems, guided by dedicated mentors who have shared their time and expertise.
“This festival is a celebration of that powerful partnership and the bright, capable minds who will drive our future forward.”
Macleans College team mentor, Andy Revans, a retired design engineer, says recycling, repurposing and low costs are encouraged for the karts, which also have to “meet stringent design criteria, while encouraging innovation in design”.
The Macleans’ kart was called ‘Tachyon – faster than an Electron’, referencing Rocketlab’s Electron rocket, says Revans.
“During the construction phase, the team was supported to varying degrees by local companies and organisations.
“Howick MenzShed helped to overcome a critical part of the design – a perfect example of the older generation helping the younger ones – and the local Bike Hub in Lloyd Elsmore Park provided an old aluminium bike to form the basis of the running gear.
“EVolocity provided a starter kit including an electric motor and batteries,” says Revans, whose son Dan led the Macleans team.
“I spent my whole career as a qualified design mechanical engineer in automotive, space, rail and marine sectors in both the United Kingdom and New Zealand and I cannot emphasise enough the benefits to students participating in EVolocity,” says Andy Revans.
“Innovative design, hands-on practical skills, teamwork, problem solving, planning and organisational skills are all required.
“This was matched by the enthusiasm of the students involved from all the participating schools.
“These skills are key to building successful careers and ultimately a resilient economy.
“I really encourage any other local schools to participate in EVolocity next year,” says Revans.
“It’s truly worthwhile and there’s great local support from EVolocity mentors to get you started.”
Kiwi motorsport rally driver and Motor Industry Training Organisation ambassador Emma Gilmour attended the Auckland regional finals to cheer on the competitors.
“I enjoyed seeing the creativity and problem-solving that goes into these student-built electric vehicles,” says Gilmour.
“It’s awesome to see young people getting hands-on experience and developing the kind of skills that will shape the future of our industry.”
