The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has announced the launch of an electric vehicle (EV) design competition aimed at university students across Nigeria. The initiative, which seeks to encourage innovation in sustainable transportation, invites universities to develop cutting-edge electric vehicle prototypes and presents an opportunity to further the country’s push towards clean energy and advanced automotive technology.
The competition, titled “EV Innovation Challenge,” was unveiled in a statement released by NADDC’s Director-General, Jelani Aliyu, at a press conference in Abuja earlier this week. He highlighted the importance of fostering young talent in the evolving global automotive industry and ensuring that Nigerian institutions are at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution.
“This competition is part of our broader strategy to position Nigeria as a leader in automotive innovation in Africa,” said Aliyu. “With the global shift towards electric mobility, it’s crucial for us to empower the next generation of engineers, designers, and innovators who will drive the future of transportation in our country.”
The challenge is open to engineering, technology, and design students from universities across Nigeria. Participating teams will be tasked with creating an electric vehicle prototype that incorporates sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and innovative designs that are suitable for the Nigerian market. The competition also aims to highlight the potential for electric vehicles in addressing environmental and infrastructural challenges within the country.
The winning team will receive funding for further research and development of their prototype, as well as an opportunity to collaborate with leading automotive companies and stakeholders in the electric vehicle sector. Additionally, the students will be given internship opportunities and access to training programs with industry experts.
The NADDC’s announcement comes as part of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and diversify its energy sources, as the country looks to embrace cleaner energy solutions and tackle climate change. The move also reflects the growing interest in electric vehicles across Africa, where governments and companies are beginning to invest in electric mobility infrastructure.
“This competition is not just about designing a vehicle; it’s about creating solutions for a greener, more sustainable future,” said Aliyu. “We believe that the young minds of today will help us build the automotive industry of tomorrow.”
As universities prepare to assemble teams for the competition, excitement is building among students who view it as a chance to showcase their skills and contribute to Nigeria’s ambitious green energy agenda. The competition is expected to serve as a catalyst for innovation and could potentially launch the careers of Nigeria’s next generation of automotive pioneers.
source: gazettengr.com
