Students at the Leigh Technology Academy will have a distinct advantage when they race their electric cars in the national schools’ Greenpower competitions, thanks to the University of Greenwich at Medway.

Fourteen sixth-formers from the Dartford academy learned how to put models of their latest electric car designs to the test in the university’s wind tunnel in a bid to improve the aerodynamics of their vehicles.

As an added bonus, the university presented the school with £2,000 sponsorship to support the school’s engineering programme – the driving force behind the Leigh Technology Academy’s highly successful Greenpower racing team.

Steve Leahey, director for the learning of technology at the academy, said: “This was an excellent experience for the students who are all working towards their national Engineering Level 3 qualifications.

“We have been competing in the Greenpower schools electric car racing challenge for three years. We have built seven cars and already we have collected 25 trophies.

“Our work has earned high praise from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers because we incorporate designing and building our Greenpower cars within our curriculum. Our students gain real hands-on experience tackling engineering challenges as part of their normal lessons.

“Being able to use the wind tunnel at the University of Greenwich at Medway campus at Chatham Maritime will make a real difference. And we will be proud to be displaying the university logo on our vehicles. Our next race is at Goodwood on April 25.

“Our young engineers were able to learn a great deal about how drag can effect a vehicle’s performance. Greenpower is all about developing high performing electric cars, which are as environmentally-friendly as possible. So, reducing drag is very important. “

The academy students were welcomed by Professor Ndy Ekere, head of the School of Engineering at the University of Greenwich, Professor Tom Barnes, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Dr Stuart Ashenden, Director of Academic Planning,

“Our wind tunnel is an excellent facility which is traditionally used by second-year undergraduates studying aerodynamics particularly in the design of wings in aeroplanes,” said Dr Ashenden.

“We were delighted to be able to assist the engineering students from Leigh Technology Academy and share our facilities with them. They showed a great interest in the wind tunnel testing as well as finding out more about career opportunities in engineering and university courses.”

For further information about the University of Greenwich, call 0800 005 006 or visit www.greenwich.ac.uk
For further information about Greenpower and technology at Leigh Technology Academy, call Steve Leahey tel: 01322 620427

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