CHCH polytech training with hybrid EV

Students training as Electrical and Mechanical Automotive Engineers at a polytechnic in Canterbury now have access to a hybrid car, exposing them to the swift technological developments in the industry. ­ Hybrid cars are becoming more popular in New Zealand, having increased from 12 cars to 1330 in the three years since the end of ­2013, according to NZTA statistics. Ara (formerly Christchurch Polytech), who is offering the new training options to students, in the past has focused on traditional cars.  Tutor David McBlain supports the Institute’s move to train students in the emergent technologies. “As a college we’ve obviously got to adapt and keep up with the latest technology so that the students can actually see what is available and how the technology is actually developing for the future.” McBlain owns a fully electric vehicle and says he has experienced the benefits first hand. He says that the benefits of charging his vehicle at night outweigh the costs of paying for fuel. “My car is a short range vehicle and will do 120-130km on a single charge. I commute 100kms a day, so it’s enough for me to get in and out to work.” McBlain also says that the mechanical challenges presented by EVs are simpler to remedy than those of the internal combustion engine. “When you look at the technology involved in an electric vehicle and under the bonnet, there is actually far less componentry to go wrong. There’s no gear box, it’s just a final drive. Engine losses are minimal. Acceleration is much superior.” At present, manufacturers generally service their own EV models, so there is little scope for training apprentices to service EVs. Students at Ara’s Electrical and Mechanical Automotive Engineers programme are likely training for future positions with manufacturers or in house servicing that is provided by the manufacturers. McBlain stresses the importance of equipping students for the market which they will enter as graduates. “The technology is here now and it’s only a matter of time over the next couple of years, for the electric vehicles to become more prevalent in New Zealand and Australia. They’re coming now so the future mechanics need to be trained and ready.”