11/10/06

The Vehicles

Energy vehicles are small, energy efficient, human powered and hybrid vehicles built mostly by school communities for competing in events like the RACV Energy Breakthrough and the Australian International Pedal Prix. Most events are for HPV’s with only the RACV Energy Breakthrough and Maroondah Grand Prix allowing hybrids at present.

All vehicles must have three or more wheels and must comply with set design and safety rules. Most are based on single seat recumbent tricycles, use many standard bicycle components  and feature aerodynamic canopies to give improved performance.

Hybrids can be either pedal powered with another power source or be powered by two power sources excluding pedals (usually electric with petrol engine). Strict rules limit the power and speed of the vehicles. Some competitions allow two seat hybrid vehicles.

Whilst the vehicles are largely made by and for school communities, they are not just ‘toys’ or teaching aids. They are serious vehicles with genuine speed, capable of traveling faster than a single racing cycle.

Competing in these vehicles has become a major interest to many students so that many have formed their own community teams after they have left school.

Why ‘Energy Vehicles’? 

         When energy vehicle competition was first conceived as a contextual learning tool for use in schools, the essential focus was the need to find alternative forms of energy to power cars of the future. Now that the effects of global warming are becoming more apparent, this need is even more pressing. We may never see domestic vehicles like these small energy vehicles, but they still provide an excellent medium for today’s students to consider the issues involved in vehicle design and learn basic skills and knowledge. The things they learn in this engaging activity may well lead to solutions in the future.

The RACV Energy Breakthrough

This is an education phenomenon that has evolved into a glorious festival which is a highlight on many school calendars. It is a celebration of learning over five days, conducted each November in Maryborough, Victoria, Australia. It is not just about energy vehicles (HPV and hybrids), but also involves pushcarts and innovations in technology.

The program encourages participants to examine and use the latest technology while considering its impact on the environment and the way people live locally and globally. Students, teachers, parents and community members work together to innovate and create a machine or vehicle that represents an energy breakthrough!

The highlight of the event is the 24 hour trial for HPV and hybrid vehicles in which teams of mostly 8 riders endeavour to keep their vehicles going in a supreme test of ‘man’ and machine. It is a major challenge for participants and a great spectacle for everyone.

From humble beginnings in 1991 the event has grown to include nearly 300 entries from over 150 primary and secondary schools which now come from most states in Australia. People who attend the event for the first time invariably exclaim, “This is the greatest educational experience I have ever had the privilege to participate in!”

See link for more information.

Other Events

Australian International Pedal Prix

This is the original competition which began in the 1980’s in South Australia. It originally accommodated hybrids but now caters only for HPV’s. It allows community teams to participate with the school teams.

Wonthaggi Human Powered Grand Prix

A smaller 24 hour event, popular for its challenging street circuit. Also allows for community teams.

Maroondah Grand Prix

A more recent event growing in popularity. It caters for HPV and hybrid vehicles, allows for community teams and is 6 hours duration.

Casey-Cardinia HPV and Cycling Club have use of a new dedicated circuit at Casey Fields sporting precinct near Cranbourne. An inaugural event was conducted in May 2006 with more to follow.