The Learning Grid

Greenpower challenges young people throughout the UK to design, build and race an electric car; giving participants an insight into the real, tangible world of engineering.

Now in its tenth year, it has expanded from being a 22-car secondary school event to a nationwide project holding the Goblin Formula series for primary school children, the original Formula 24 for secondary schools and the new Formula 24+ for teams aged 16-21 and in any form of full or part-time education. The competition is becoming increasingly popular, which stands as a testament to its unique approach to engineering and its ability to bring together and excite young people from a variety of different areas and backgrounds.

Formula 24 (Key Stages 3 and 4) – At Formula 24 level, the specification is open-ended, with only an electric motor and batteries being the standard issue to each team. From there, teams of up to 12 pupils design and build a vehicle adhering to Formula 24 safety regulations. Teams then race their car at a four-hour endurance regional heat, held at major motor circuits nationwide in June, July and September. The top 75 cars from around the country go through to compete in the national final at the Goodwood motor circuit in October. First year entry fee is £375, which includes motor and batteries, and just £60 per year thereafter. A simple kit car is available to get you going if the initial challenge appears daunting.

Formula 24+ (Key Stage 5 Onwards) - For teams aged 16-21, Formula 24+ allows older competitors to both take their experience from Formula 24 and build a more competitive, faster car or to race other teams of their age and ability. 90 minute races are held prior to Formula 24 events, where teams compete for points in an annual Constructors Championship. Initial entry cost is £295 including motor and batteries, with a £60 entry fee per year thereafter.

Extensive support is available from the online Greenpower discussion forum, an email helpline and a website which contains design information as well as many photographs. The Formula 24 project is also recommended on the QCA website at GCSE level.

Not only does Greenpower approach the idea of engineering from a less mainstream direction than normal lessons or after school clubs, it also encourages creativity and most importantly enthusiasm and cooperation in problem solving - invaluable skills for any young person whether they decide to pursue an engineering career or not. And one thing’s for sure; being in a Greenpower team is an experience that its members never forget.

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