Throughout the 21st century, the development of electric vehicles has accelerated, and the transition from fossil fuel-powered cars to electric cars could be a significant milestone in Denmark's climate goals.

Small Electric Car
Students at Aalborg University are contributing to the continued development of electric cars through a LeadENG project. The project began in the spring of 2021 when students from the Department of Materials and Production and the Department of Energy collaborated to build a small electric single-seater car designed to transport individuals over short distances. Since then, version 1.0 of the car has served as the baseline for the development of various components in later versions of the small electric car.

In 2022, after the first version of the car was built, 2nd semester mechanical and production engineering students worked on improving the front and rear suspension systems with the goal of adding mechanical brakes to the back end and enhancing the driver's comfort. Students in the 4th and 6th semesters worked on a better and lighter chassis that could withstand various stresses better. The chassis had to interact with the suspension system, and the project thus provided an opportunity for students to collaborate across semesters.

Simultaneously, energy engineering students worked on the car’s battery and motor, determining the required battery capacity to enable different driving ranges and driving patterns. Furthermore, the project also opened the opportunity to explore simulations of a hydrogen- and fuel cell-powered vehicle.

The continued development of the car is aimed at creating a version capable of autonomous driving on campus. The small electric car is modular, allowing students to optimize and test individual components of the vehicle. This has introduced an experimental dimension where students could base their work on measurements from the car or use the car to validate models. The project aims to create an interest in engineering students in electric vehicles and educate them to contribute to the development of the future’s cars.

Problem-Based Learning
The project's learning method is based on Aalborg University's problem-based learning model (PBL). The students collaborate across programs to design and develop the best possible car, gaining unique insights into knowledge and methods from different academic fields. The project provides students with the opportunity to gain experience in interdisciplinary collaboration and to develop competencies that will be valuable in their future careers.