New Mexico Electric Car Challenge

Empowering Middle School Students in STEM

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The New Mexico Middle School Electric Car Challenge is a battery-powered model car race and design competition, with the option to participate in a research presentation competition. Students embark on an exciting journey to build a battery-powered car while developing their STEM skills. This challenge teaches engineering concepts, teamwork, creative thinking and research skills.

Challenge Summary

The Basics

  • Teams: With a range of 2-6 members, participants collaborate to tackle the challenges ahead.
  • Limited Participation: The opportunity to participate is available to the first 50 teams that register.
  • Materials:  Car kits will be shipped to the designated coaches upon registration. 
  • Participant Release Forms: Coaches must submit a signed form for all students attending.

Three Engaging Challenges

  1. Race Challenge: Test the electric car’s speed and agility with five qualifying runs over a 10-meter course followed by head-to-head competition for the fastest cars. 
  2. Design Challenge: Showcase understanding of the design process with a scheduled 10-minute interview for all teams, demonstrating knowledge and application of design concepts.
  3. Optional Research Challenge: Dive into an energy-related topic (provided), present a 5–7-minute research presentation using PowerPoint to showcase findings and insights.

Join us in the New Mexico Electric Car Challenge and experience the thrill of applying science and engineering skills while driving towards success!

Chance Bonham, 12, from the Berrendo Middle School launches his team’s electric car drug the New Mexico Electric Car Challenge sponsored by Sandia and Los Alamos National labs at Van Buren Middle school in Albuquerque on Saturday Nov. 19, 2022. Photo by Craig Fritz/Sandia National Labs
A student from the Berrendo Middle School launches his team’s electric car in 2022.
Students working with solar power at one of the many engaging STEM exhibits showcased.
Students working with solar power at one of the many engaging STEM exhibits showcased.

Challenge Materials

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