**University Students Seek Support for Solar Challenge**
University students from Baja California are gearing up with hopes of national acclaim in the development of electric vehicles at the upcoming Solar Challenge in Chihuahua. This event is slated to take place from November 22 to 24, 2024, at the Technological University of Ciudad Juárez.
During the current academic semester, engineering students specializing in Mechatronics and Sustainable Energy from UTT have been diligently working on the design and construction of an electric car named Cuervo 4.0, which will represent Tijuana in the competition. This marks the fourth time UTT participates in the event.
“Cuervo 4.0 is a student-designed vehicle, built from scratch by our students at UTT. They organize fundraising activities to acquire the necessary materials,” explained Rogelio Serrano, Mechatronics professor at UTT.
The vehicle is primarily designed for small circuits, yet team member Josué Alberto Berumen Cabada believes their creation could handle street conditions as well. In 2019, UTT won first place for technical performance and design, and in this challenge, cars aim to complete as many laps as possible within a four-hour period.
Each competition sees a new generation of students participating, building entirely original designs. While they often recycle integral components like solar panels, this year they upgraded the previous model’s motor thanks to effective fundraising, according to Serrano.
Diego Núñez Cruz, an engineering student and driver of the Cuervo 4.0, points out that frigid temperatures, ranging from five to nine degrees Celsius, could pose a challenge but the team is working on ensuring the vehicle functions flawlessly.
Financial contributions to support the project can be made through their GoFundMe page or via tax-deductible donations directly coordinated with UTT’s administration office in Tijuana. Berumen Cabada expressed gratitude towards those who have supported the project.
This endeavor enhances students’ teamwork skills, broadens their understanding of emerging technologies, and familiarizes them with sustainable energy solutions. Team Cuervo 4.0, comprised of four professors and nine students such as Antonio Medina Almeida and Cindy Berenice Silva Flores, represents UTT for their fourth appearance in the series.
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**Global Perspective on Electric Vehicle Education Initiatives**
Electric vehicles (EVs) are garnering significant attention globally as companies like Tesla and BYD innovate in this space. Although Tesla doesn’t operate directly in Baja California, its presence in nearby California highlights the region’s growing engagement with EV technology. Such projects provide invaluable experience, equipping students with knowledge about evolving technological trends and sustainable energy, which are crucial as the world shifts towards greener solutions.
Numerous universities worldwide are incorporating EV-related projects into their curricula, aiming to prepare students for the burgeoning green technology sector. Countries across Europe and Asia have introduced similar programs, emphasizing the importance of renewable energy education and its role in developing future engineers and technology specialists.
The involvement of academic institutions in solar vehicle challenges not only fosters innovation but also inspires students to contribute actively to essential advancements in transportation technology. Through participation in these competitions, students gain practical experience that bridges the gap between theoretical learning and real-world applications.