Yuasa eVolution

A New Unrestricted Category for eV Challenge was introduced in 2008

This is an "open" class, similar to the existing C Class, with the exception that:

1 Batteries will be supplied by the organisers

1.1 The only batteries permitted on the vehicle will be two Yuasa NP18-12B, 12 volt 18 Ah sealed lead acid batteries, which will be supplied to the contestants immediately prior to the event. The batteries will be charged before the event by Yuasa. 

1.2 Batteries will be fitted to the vehicle under the supervision of a scrutineer, and no further charging or “treatment” of the battery of any sort will be permitted. 

No other energy source is to be used for the propulsion of the vehicle.  For example solar photovoltaic cells are forbidden, as are changes in aerodynamic shape to exploit any wind. Auxiliary batteries for any purpose, (e.g. data logging, or a siren) are forbidden. Auxiliary energy storage devices are permitted (eg a super-capacitor or a flywheel) as part of a regenerative braking system, but that the contestant must be able to demonstrate there is no energy stored in such a device when the car is on the starting grid, eg by removing a short circuit across it. 

1.3 The scrutineer will attach a tape around the batteries, and their support structure, after they have been mounted and electrically connected by the contestant. This tape will be inspected by a scrutineer at the end of the event. Evidence of interference with the tape will lead to disqualification. 

2 No Cost Limit

There is no cost restriction. (ie the $1200 rule does not apply). 

Aims of the New Class

The aims of the new class are to:

2 Stimulate engineering innovation at the highest level.  For example this could include

2.1 design, development and construction of motors, electronic motor controllers and mechanical transmissions with extremely low energy losses

2.2 development and construction of vehicle designs which minimise losses (rolling resistance, bearing friction, aerodynamic drag)

2.3

(a).  high efficiency, regenerative braking systems, enabling maximum recovery of braking energy, and

(b). steering geometry and vehicle suspension

The circuit has several sharp curves which makes these aspects of design worthy of careful attention.

2.4 vehicle construction, new materials, etc 

3 Disseminate knowledge of successful eV Challenge vehicle design techniques.

It is hoped the Yuasa class will expand knowledge in many aspects of vehicle construction, and these new techniques will be taken up by High School constructors. 

4 Enhance participation in, and the status of the eV Challenge, in all the classes, as an engineering project of enormous value at all levels of Engineering Education.

For information on the Yuasa range of batteries, visit www.yuasabatteries.com.au