Electrifying Success: Highlights from the SVEC Grand Prix

The Shenandoah Valley Electric Vehicle Grand Prix (SVEVGP) is an electrifying showcase of innovation and teamwork, where high school teams go head-to-head in a thrilling race of vehicles they’ve built from the ground up. This year, the 2024 competition, held on Saturday, April 13th, at SVEC’s office in Rockingham, VA, brought together thirteen teams ready to test their engineering prowess and speed.

Excitement grew as race day arrived, as thirteen local high school teams prepared to take on the EV challenge. Among them was the Eastern Mennonite High School (EMHS) team, who poured their creativity and hard work into crafting their EV derby car. Despite fierce competition, the EMHS team secured an impressive 8th place overall, showcasing their commitment and ingenuity. By the end of the day, the team was awarded with: Best New Team, Safety, Best Picture, and Best Video. Click here to view the video created by the EMHS EV team.

It all started with a grant that was received from the Shenandoah Electric Cooperative which included a kit for the motor. Leading up to the race, the EMHS EV team worked diligently in perfecting their design and build. Countless hours were spent on test runs around the building and in the parking lots, with every team member contributing to the final tweaks and optimizations necessary for race day success. Special thanks to Tyler Kauffman, EMS facilities maintenance coordinator, for sharing his knowledge and expertise in spray paint art, and also to Shenandoah Bicycle for the tire tube. 

The SVEVGP isn’t just about speed; it’s a demonstration of the power of collaboration, innovation, and hands-on learning. As students from across the Shenandoah Valley came together to push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology, they’re not only racing for victory but also shaping the future of sustainable transportation.