“The youth of today are our future so is important to invest in the development of their skills and knowledge,” said Brian Bannister, Motor Specialist with Lafert Electric Motors of Crewe, United Kingdom. He made this statement at a special presentation where he handed over a sponsorship cheque to the Girls at Sandbach High School and Sixth Form College who form the teams participating in the IET (Institution of Engineering & Technology) Formula 24 and 24+ racing car competitions.
For IET’s GreenPower events, The Sandbach CAUC teams have to design and build electric racing cars based upon specified motors and batteries. The Formula 24 is for teams comprising 11 to 16 year olds and Formula 24+ is for 16 to 24 year olds. The power pack for all the participating cars is standardised: 2x12V electric batteries and a 12VDC motor (same as an electric wheelchair motor).
A key factor in the Sandbach teams is the use of trackside telemetry. They monitor data sent by the car on laptops so speed, power settings and battery life can be observed to maximise driver/car efficiency. Other important skills developed include ICT, design and aerodynamics as well as team work, communications, organisation and leadership.
To help promote their efforts further, Lafert is planning to have one of the cars built by the girls on the company’s stand at this year’s Drives & Controls Show at the NEC, April 8-10th April. In addition to helping nurture the skills required, Lafert’s involvement in the Formula 24/24+ projects also reflects the company’s own experience and product range relating to battery powered vehicles.
