A group of Abbey College Manchester students, age 16-21 are taking part in the UK Greenpower challenge to design, build and race an electric car.

In a cross-curricular approach, Science and Engineering students will build the car, Art and Design students have been tasked with designing the livery and branding whilst, Business and Economics students are seeking sponsorship and co-ordinating marketing.

Once the car is constructed, the Abbey College Manchester pupils will take the car to test days, as well as competing in up to ten IET Formula 24+ regional championship rounds at well-known UK motor circuit venues, as a precursor to the International Final held at Rockingham Motor Speedway.

At the high profile race events the entrants will put the car to the test in 60-minute endurance races where the team which goes the furthest distance within the time limit wins.

Janet Morris, Head of Physics at Abbey College Manchester says:

“This is an unrivalled opportunity for our students to extend their learning as part of this highly fascinating, real life project which will hone their Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) skills.

“All of them are extremely excited to begin researching and formulating the initial outline plans for their design, with a view to doing well on the highly anticipated race days.”

The Greenpower challenge uses the excitement of motorsport to inspire young people to develop enthusiasm in STEM subjects. It is a national competition run by the Greenpower Education Trust, a UK based charity.

Teams of students from across the globe compete at Greenpower events in the UK and other countries including USA, Poland and China. The annual International Final takes place at the UK’s Rockingham Motor Speedway.

Abbey College is a leading independent college in the heart of Manchester, with a fast-growing and vibrant community.

There are over 200 students at the college, comprising a mix of students from the local area and other countries. The college offers A-Level, GCSE, Combined Studies and International Foundation Programmes.

For more information on Abbey College visit www.abbeymanchester.co.uk, or call 0161 817 2700.