Development of an small electric race car

Yip, Zhen Shen (2025) Development of an small electric race car. Final Year Project, UTAR.

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Abstract

This project aims to develop an electric racing car from a standard ride-on-car. Electric vehicles (EV) are recognized for the higher efficiency compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. In addition, EV racing can be a good platform to understand everyday science. This can also be an effective method to spark children’s interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, where the students, children and young learners can gain hands-on experience in problem-solving, engineering skills and creativity when modifying the electric ride-on-car within an affordable budget. Pursuing this project, it first involves researching electric ride-on-car modification techniques, and performance components. Selected ride-on-car is then analysed to determine suitable design changes for an adult to drive. Required parts were fabricated using methods suitable for children to handle and subsequently installed on the car. The car was reinforced to support the weight and handling requirements for adult driving. Additionally, the stock 12V motor was replaced with a 24V motor, different gear ratio and wiring for improving the ride-on-car’s performance. The modified car was then tested for weight distribution, shaft deflection, acceleration, and power consumption. The front wheel camber change due to heavy load is reduced about 75%. The rear shaft deflection was significantly improved 59% which would increase the durability of powertrain system. Performance improved notably, with the top speed increased 260% and the 0-13 m acceleration time dropped from 20.98 s to just 5.91 s. However, the upgraded motor consumed more electrical power which increase the power consumption from 0.0148 Wh/m to 0.1407 Wh/m. In short, this project successfully demonstrated that an electric ride-on car can be transformed into a cost-effective platform for STEM education. Keywords: STEM awareness, racing, electric vehicle, modifications, energy efficiency Subject Area: TJ1-1570 Mechanical engineering and machinery, TL1-4050 Motor vehicles

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