Electric Vehicle Arrives at ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø

ºÚ¹Ï³ÔÁÏÍø took delivery of its first electric vehicle (EV) this month. The specially modified car, which cost in the region of £50,000, has been set up for training purposes. It features diagnostic units built into the car, comes complete with a series of training modules, and our students can’t wait to start finding out everything there is to know about EVs.

Motor Vehicle Engineering Level 2 student James Chirita enjoys both the practical side of his course as well as the theory. James said: “I’ve never worked on an electric car before so I’m looking forward to beginning my training.�

Fellow Level 2 learner Mateo Suarez loves the hands-on aspect of motor vehicle engineering. Mateo added: “I like customising cars to improve performance and the way they look.�

Oscar Rosa, who is currently a Level 1 learner is passionate about motor vehicle engineering. Oscar plans to progress to Levels 2 and 3. He said: “I’m really motivated to learn about the EV as these are the cars of the future.�

In terms of their favourite cars of the present, James would opt for a Ford Ranger pick up truck, Mateo a Golf R32 which has a powerful V6 engine, and Oscar a Ford Focus GTI as it is compact and sporty.

While drivers may have been hesitant about EVs in the past due to the infrastructure needed to support charging and fears leading to ‘range anxiety’, teacher David Costello believes the technology is improving all the time.

David Costello said: “We’re thrilled that our students will start to learn about EVs. The combustion engine is being phased out of production so the skills needed to repair these cars will dwindle in the next decade or so. EVs are the future in our industry.�

Our Motor Vehicle Engineering department received their IMI re-accreditation over the summer, which lasts for the next three years. The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), is the professional association for the motor industry.

Motor Vehicle lecturer Dennis Mirador, said: “Our IMI accreditation allows us to deliver training and qualifications that are recognised by the motor industry and internationally.�