Excitement is building for EVolocity students across the country, with our annual series of workshops now well underway, and race day getting closer by the day.
These workshops – exploring everything from team planning and design, to fabrication and electronics – are the stepping stones towards our regional and national rally days, where the final vehicles will be put to the ultimate test.
Led by experts, these workshops provide EVolocity students with everything they need to turn their bold ideas into reality, and help them grow their confidence and skills.
As the countdown to the rally day continues, we caught up with Annabelle and Shannon, to hear about some of their highlights and the progress made so far.
CAD workshops
CAD is a cornerstone of modern engineering and design. Standing for Computer-Aided Design these tools produce precise and detailed digital models that enhance productivity, improve the quality of designs, and allow for complex simulations and testing before any physical prototypes are made.
Our CAD workshops provide EVolocity students with an opportunity to learn about how they can utilise CAD in their design process.
Throughout these workshop, students learn the fundamentals of CAD software and explore its vast applications across various industries.
“Students brought along their sketches, designs, and prototypes, eager to translate their concepts into digital form. The workshop was not just a learning experience but also an opportunity to innovate and bring creative ideas to life.”
Annabelle, EVolocity School Coordinator, speaking about a CAD workshop in Canterbury
Other highlights include exploring and experimenting with:
- Practical applications of CAD (designing and creating projects from conceptual sketches to electronic drawings)
- 3D modelling (to transform ideas to digital reality),
- 3D printing (learning to export designs for printing, to turn virtual models into tangible prototypes).
Welding workshops
Welding is a technique commonly used in STEM fields. By fusing materials – typically metals – welding creates strong and durable bonds that are essential for the integrity and functionality of countless structures and products.
In the context of building electric vehicles, welding is indispensable. It offers the ability to customise structures with sturdy materials, and upcycle or revive existing metal components – enhancing both sustainability and creativity.
At our welding workshops, EVolocity students learn basic welding techniques and applications. They gain practical experience in welding – building their confidence to apply these skills in their builds, and beyond.
“Students discovered how welding can be used to customise structures and breathe new life into old metal components. It’s a skill set that extends beyond the workshop, empowering them in various future projects.”
Annabelle
Design workshops
A foundational part of any student’s journey through EVolocity is designing the electric vehicle they will eventually build with their team.
Our design workshops bring a structure to the early stages of the design process – helping students channel their ideas and creativity, and decide on important project elements.
“They chose a team theme, wheel layout and an overall goal for the build. They then used this to create a list of ‘wants and needs’ so they can decide what parts are critical to reach their overall goal. At the end, we asked students to share a little bit about their design plans with the group. As always, we heard so many awesome ideas and some exciting team themes. Our students walked away with the start of their design plans, ready to get into their next stage of planning.”
Shannon, National Co-ordinator, speaking about a recent design workshop in Waikato
Tools 101
During the build and manufacturing process, students utilise a variety of tools to assemble their vehicles and various components, such as soldering irons, wrenches, and screwdrivers.
These tools are essential for ensuring the quality and functionality of the final product, and mastering their use is crucial for students’ success in the EVolocity programme. To set them up for success, we host Tools 101 workshops.
These provide students with a foundational understanding of the tools and equipment they might use.
This workshop goes beyond theory, allowing students to get hands-on with the tools themselves. Through engaging activities, students not only learn about the tools but also gain practical experience in using them. This hands-on approach not only enhances their understanding of electric vehicle manufacturing but also builds their confidence in applying these skills in real-world scenarios.
Overall, these workshops offer so much more than practical skill development. They are where ideas take shape, confidence is grown, and competencies like teamwork, critical-thinking, and problem-solving, are honed.
Looking ahead, we’ve got some exciting workshops still to come – including regional Build Days (where students can continue refining their designs and prototypes with expert help), Arduino workshops (exploring electronics and programming), and Troubleshooting Days (where students can receive help in solving emerging challenges).
This is all in the lead-up to National Rally Day. Free tickets can be secured here.
