Electric vehicles in all shapes and sizes on display at Swinburne
In Summary
Electric vehicle enthusiasts, and those who are just curious about the technology, will be able to see and learn more about this eco-friendly form of transportation at Swinburne University of Technology this weekend.
The 2015 Melbourne Electric Vehicle Expo is a one-day event jointly presented by Swinburne University of Technology, the Alternative Technology Association and City of Boroondara. It will showcase a diverse range of electric transport options, such as electric cars, scooters, bikes and flying machines.
Those attending the event will have the opportunity to test ride electric bikes and to take a ride in the 2014 Wheels Car of the Year, BMW i3 electric car. The BMW i8 sports car will also be on display. Tesla, Nissan and Mitsubishi will also have vehicles at the expo.
Swinburne’s Electric Vehicle Research Group member, lecturer and ATA Board member, Dr Clint Steele, said the expo provides an opportunity for the public to see what Swinburne has been doing in the area of electric vehicle research and explore alternative forms of transport.
“Swinburne’s Electric Vehicle Research Group is one of the leaders in the world in electric vehicle (EV) research, development, policy and education,” Dr Steele said.
“The research being carried out includes battery technology and management, drivetrain and electric motor technologies, lightweighting and vehicle design.
“Team Swinburne’s FSAE electric race car will be on display at the expo, providing an example of the university’s research and development in the area of electric vehicles.”
Dr Steele said the event would give people the chance to ask experts questions about electric vehicles.
“There’s a diverse range of the electric vehicles on offer, and this provides an opportunity for people to see what kind of EVs are available on the market.”
“There will be speakers presenting on issues relating to the EV industry, exploring popular aspects of EVs and their rise in Australia and internationally,” Dr Steele said.
There will also be a show ‘n’ shine competition where people can show their electric bike, car, motorbike, scooter or other electric vehicle. Prizes will be awarded for the Most Attractive Vehicle, Best Workmanship, and Best Concept.
This is the third consecutive year that the free event has been held at Swinburne’s Hawthorn campus.
What: The Melbourne Electric Vehicle Expo 2015
When: 10am-4pm, Sunday 19 April
Where: The Atrium, Swinburne University of Technology, Burwood Road, Hawthorn.
More information about the EV Expo can be found here.