Two CUT teams, two cars, 20 participants: Twenty CUT students participated in the Kovsie Act Eco Vehicle Race. Two teams of 10 members each showed courage and enthusiasm in the obstacle-challenge race and took home trophies. 

On 18 May 2024, 20 CUT students participated in the 7^th annual Kovsie Act Eco Vehicle Race—the competition aimed at promoting sustainability and innovation. The event comprised three distinct races, each designed to test different aspects of the eco-vehicles’ performance and the drivers' skills. Two enthusiastic CUT teams made up of 10 members each took to the racetrack with much courage and enthusiasm in the obstacle challenge race. The teams were a blend of drivers, engineering mediators, safety representatives, and technical support, each playing a crucial role in the team's success. 

The key theme of the event was sustainability, where students were judged on their creativity and relevance of their pitstop decorations using recyclable materials. 

In the first course, known as the Smart Lap, drivers were challenged to balance speed with energy efficiency. The objective was to complete the lap as quickly as possible while conserving the vehicle's energy. CUT’s team 1 emerged victorious in this course, demonstrating an impressive blend of speed and strategic energy management. 

The second race, Obstacle Course, added a layer of complexity as drivers navigated through a series of cones. Accuracy and speed were crucial, as hitting the cones resulted in penalties. CUT Team 2 excelled in this challenge, showcasing remarkable control and speed, and clinched the win. 

The final race, the Endurance course, tested the vehicles’ ability to sustain performance over an extended period. The goal was to complete the most laps without depleting the vehicle's energy reserves. CUT Team 2 proved their mettle once again, winning the Endurance Course Challenge, while CUT Team 1 secured the fifth position.

CUT Team Leaders Thabo Letooane and Thekiso Boqo are proud of their achievements.

 Asked about their experience, team leaders Thabo Letooane and Mr Thekiso Boqo said the race was challenging and exciting at the same time. “The Eco-Vehicle Skills Program was more than just a competition, it was a combination of many factors like innovation, sustainability, strategy, managing and controlling as well as good team spirit. Through these challenges, we have not only honed our technical skills but also gained valuable insights into the importance of sustainable practices. This event stands as a testament to the bright future of eco-friendly engineering and the potential of young minds to drive positive change in our world.” 

The CUT results are as follows: 2^nd place pitstop winners, 1^st place Obstacle Race, 1^st place Smart Lap Race, 2^nd place Endurance Race and 2^nd place in the overall winners for the eco vehicle race 2024.

Uploaded: 21 May 2024