Macleans College Team Shines at EVolocity Electric Kart Competition

A team from Macleans College in east Auckland achieved a commendable third place in their debut at the national EVolocity electric kart competition. The event, held at Hampton Downs in October 2023, featured secondary and intermediate schools from the Auckland region competing in various categories. The Macleans team also secured third place in three additional sub-categories, demonstrating their impressive skills and innovative design.

EVolocity, a national charity established in 2014, aims to empower young New Zealanders by promoting sustainable technology. Jason Maraku, the chief executive of EVolocity, emphasized the importance of community support and mentorship in fostering the next generation of innovators. “Behind every one of these electric vehicles is a story of a student team solving complex problems, guided by dedicated mentors,” Maraku stated.

The Macleans College kart, named Tachyon—a nod to the Rocket Lab’s Electron rocket—was developed under the mentorship of retired design engineer Andy Revans. Revans highlighted the project’s focus on recycling and innovation, stating that the karts must adhere to strict design criteria while encouraging creative solutions.

Community involvement played a significant role in the team’s success. Local organizations provided essential support, including Howick MenzShed, which assisted with a crucial design element, and the local Bike Hub in Lloyd Elsmore Park, which donated an old aluminum bike that served as the foundation for the kart’s running gear. EVolocity also supplied a starter kit that included an electric motor and batteries, vital for constructing the vehicle.

Revans, whose son Dan led the Macleans team, expressed the profound impact of the EVolocity experience on students. “Innovative design, hands-on practical skills, teamwork, problem-solving, planning, and organizational skills are all required,” he explained. He encouraged other local schools to participate in future competitions, emphasizing the benefits of mentorship and community support.

The regional finals attracted attention from notable figures, including Emma Gilmour, a Kiwi motorsport rally driver and ambassador for the Motor Industry Training Organisation. Gilmour praised the students’ creativity and practical experience, stating, “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.”

The Macleans College team’s achievement at the EVolocity competition not only showcases their hard work and dedication but also highlights the importance of community involvement in education. As students continue to innovate and develop critical skills through such programs, they are well-prepared to contribute to a sustainable future.