Electric vehicles are picking up in popularity, and a contest this weekend will put what could be the next generation of scientists to the test. At the University of Kentucky Saturday, teams of 4th through 6th graders will race each other with electric vehicles they put together. It’s UK’s Center for Applied Energy Research 2nd annual Gen-EV statewide championship. Organizer Sheila Medina called it an incredible development program for the kids.
“They learn how to read blueprints, they learn all about different types of tools. And they use the tools the cars come in, totally apart. And they totally assemble the vehicle.”
Medina said the students also gain public presentation, team development, budgeting and art skills. She didn’t take exception to describing the contest as a 23rd century, battery-powered Soap Box Derby. She said the kids learn how to read blueprints and use tools to put together a small, 15 mile per hour-max electric vehicle. They also gain other skills while having what she called a “totally awesome” time.
“It's an incredible happy day. The kids are showing what they've done. They're so proud of their cars. And they're really in it to win.”
Medina said whether or not they win Saturday’s competition, the skills the kids learn will help them … down the road.
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