Designers from Wrocław University of Technology
proved unmatched in the SmartMoto Challenge. Their Light Electric Motorcycle
(LEM) won the general classification, as well as in the “Business Plan” and “Design”
competitions.
“Compared
with other projects, our vehicle was certainly distinguished by its styling.” –
says Grażyna Domagała from the Scientific Circle of Vehicles and Mobile Robots
– “The jury also liked our mobile app. It turned out we were also best in
presenting a business plan adapted to Polish conditions.”
The
students showed their happiness on their Facebook profile: “We’re coming back with
the shield and with solid trophies, too! We won two out four cups! We would
like to thank all who contributed to the success! The team, the sponsors, and
Wrocław University of Technology!”
Out
University’s team counted 9 persons. During the challenge, they had to present
their project in the static and dynamic competitions. First, they presented the
business plan of launching the motorcycle to the market, then they demonstrated
the prototype before a jury composed of automotive industry professionals.
Then, the vehicle underwent technical and performance tests. Finally, it took
part in a 22-kilomtre race (organized on the Formula One race track) and road
tests in the streets of Barcelona.
11 teams
from various countries took part in the challenge, e.g. from Spain, Russia, and
Ecuador. The Polish team performed very well in each competition. “Our team was
first to undergo the technical test. LEM, with a smile and blinking headlamps,
has undergone all the tests! So far, we are the only team that can boast the
‘SMC passed’ sticker.” – informed the students live on their Facebook profile.
“We are
very happy with the victory. We remembered our last year’s experience, when our
motorcycle had been stolen. This time, we watched it carefully all along.” –
says Grażyna Domagała. She adds that the vehicle is already packed and on the
way to Wrocław but they will stay in Spain a few more days to go sightseeing
and relax, at last. “It was a very tiring time, we deserved holidays.” – says
the student.
ISZ, Lucy
Translation: Dariusz Więcławski
SmartMoto Challenge in Barcelona (3th-6th July) is an
international student competition of electric motorcycles and bicycles. The task of the participating
teams is to design and build a light, two-wheeled electric vehicle: from the
frame, through the body, suspension, braking system, to the steering system, as
well as other elements. During the assessment, special attention is paid to
recuperation of electrical energy and solutions utilizing innovative
technologies, such as sending battery status information to Internet via GPRS,
as well as the drafting of a business plan of launching the vehicle to the
market.