In a display of innovation and ingenuity, high school students from the UAE and around the world gathered in Abu Dhabi for the second annual UAE Electric Vehicle Grand Prix. This extraordinary event, hosted at the Al Forsan International Sports Resort, showcased the culmination of months of tireless effort by more than 400 students representing 28 high schools from the UAE, US, Egypt, and Italy. Their mission? To race their hand-built electric cars, each a testament to the collaborative spirit and boundless curiosity of young minds.
Unity in Diversity
Amidst a sea of brightly coloured three-wheeled vehicles, 21 teams from the UAE, five from the US, and one each from Egypt and Italy converged under the guidance of teachers and technical experts. For many, like 16-year-old Saeed Al Mulla from the IPSJ Falcons team, it was a first-time experience filled with excitement and learning. “What really excites me is being able to learn so much. This can’t be measured,” he expressed, reflecting the sentiment shared by many participants.
Empowering Girls in STEM
One remarkable aspect of the event was the significant participation of girls, challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers in the field of STEM. Farishtey Farhad, a student from the Al Basma British School, highlighted the predominantly female composition of her team, emphasising their role in both engineering and leadership positions. “The engineers, too, are mainly girls. They built the car and many are planning to pursue engineering in university,” Farishtey shared, underscoring the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation forward.
Beyond the Racetrack
Beyond the thrill of the race, the event provided invaluable real-world experience for participants, fostering problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of sustainability. As Hailey Preuss, a visiting racer from the US, noted, “It’s a totally different way of thinking from the pit crew where the main goal is to get the driver in and out, to actually having to focus on conserving the car’s energy.” The competition sparked curiosity not only among participants but also within their communities, igniting conversations about the potential of electric vehicles and green technology.
Champions of Sustainability
For these young innovators, the competition served as a catalyst for exploring the possibilities of green technology and its impact on the environment. As Andrew Berry, a participant, aptly stated, “Electric vehicles are the future.” With a growing awareness of climate change and the pressing need for sustainable solutions, these budding engineers and racers are poised to lead the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future.
In the heart of Abu Dhabi, amidst the roar of electric engines and the cheers of spectators, the UAE Electric Vehicle Grand Prix not only celebrated the spirit of competition but also embodied the boundless potential of youth in shaping a brighter tomorrow.
