Young Kiwi Engineers race into the future

Live Wai-ers from Homeschool Wairarapa

Each year, EVolocity’s electric vehicle competition showcases the next generation of sustainable technology innovators across Aotearoa. This initiative is made possible with the help of our supporters, including the Freemasons Foundation.

Rangatahi from across the motu geared up to compete in the regional finals in October, displaying and racing electric vehicles (karts or bikes) they’d designed and built throughout the year, putting their engineering skills to the test in a series of racing challenges and driving the future of clean tech innovation.

Hornets from Northcross Intermediate

New Zealand rally driver and first-ever female factory driver for McLaren Racing,  Emma Gilmour, attended EVolocity’s Auckland finals in October to cheer on the next generation of engineers and innovators. As a trailblazer in motorsport and champion of automotive excellence, Gilmour shared her journey and insights with students and encouraged rangatahi to explore future-focused pathways in STEM and trades.

Gilmour said before the Auckland event, “I’m really looking forward to seeing the creativity and problem-solving that goes into these student-built electric vehicles. 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 Silver Bullet from New Plymouth Girls’ High School

EVolocity’s recently appointed Chief Executive, Jason Maraku, says, “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."

EVolocity is a national charity that has been empowering young New Zealanders since 2014. Operating across eight regions, the programme delivers hands-on STEM experiences that prepare students for tertiary study, apprenticeships, and careers in technology and trades-while accelerating New Zealand’s transition to clean transportation. EVolocity is an incubator for innovation, engineering excellence, and we are helping create future-focused career pathways for young New Zealanders.

For more information visit www.evolocity.co.nz