Below is a list of student technical queries – along with the answers to share our knowledge with the EVolocity community.
If you’re after technical advice on your electric build, our tech team are here to help – submit your question here.
Q.
I am looking to enter a 1kW kart, and I was wondering if I can use a 1.1kW motor rather than a 1kW motor, as I have found them easier to source.
A.
You’re welcome to use a 1.1kW motor but your motor controller cannot be rated above 1kW.
A 1.1kW motor paired with a 1kW controller is actually a great setup as it’s good practice to have a bit of headroom for your motor.
Q.
We are looking to do a modular build, where parts can be added or removed as needed for each event. Is this allowed?
A.
No. Once scrutineering is complete there are no modifications to be made to your vehicle.
Q.
I have signed up for a CAD workshop and am having trouble setting up an Autodesk fusion 360 account to use on the day. Could you please send me some advice on how to make one?
A.
Head to this page on Autodesk’s website. If it asks if you would like to go to NZ’s page or stay, click stay. Scroll down to the bottom of the comparison table and click “get started” in the free version column.
If you don’t have an account, create an account. You must use a personal email address here. If you use a school or work email this will not work. If you already have a personal Autodesk account, just sign in.
Alternatively, you may use a school email and opt for the Education Edition, but note that this requires an authentication process that may take some time to be approved.
Continue on and enter the details as requested. You should end up at a page that starts the download of an installation executable file. The process is the same for Windows and Mac, however on Mac it will be a .dmg, not an executable. Note that Fusion360 is not available on Linux or Chromebooks.
Once downloaded, run the executable to install. It should take about 10 minutes to complete.
When this is complete, run Fusion360 and sign into your account. On Mac the app launcher is not installed to Applications by default, so use Spotlight (CMD+space) to search Fusion360. See the internet for help in adding the app launcher to Applications.
Q.
Can I add a lid to the water bucket?
A.
No. The water bucket challenge is in place to test driver skill and vehicle handling, not your ability to purchase a lid or craft a single-purpose accessory.
Q.
Can my vehicle be radio controlled?
A.
You’re welcome to make a radio controlled vehicle, but pay mind to rule VR.3.3 that states the driver must remain in contact with the seat whilst driving.
Q.
What are the dimensions of the Standard Kit batteries?
A.
180mm x 75mm x 165mm
Q.
How do I get replacement parts for the Standard Kit?
A.
Email your coordinator, or submit an enquiry using the enquiry form.
Q.
We have acquired some healthy NiMH hybrid batteries and were wondering if we can use them for the 1kw open cart?
A.
The rules indeed do not mention NiMH batteries, mainly because I have not seen them used in EVolocuty before. That said, they are perfectly fine to use, and are a great battery to use for EVolocity. I’ll make a note to add them to the table of battery chemistries in the next rules revision.
I presume when you say “hybrid batteries” you mean they have come out of an old hybrid car? If so, awesome – I’ll be looking forward to seeing your build!