ABB Australia returns as a sponsor for the Hydrogen Grand Prix Program (H2GP), supporting Foxwell State Secondary College’s participation in the hydrogen educational competition aimed at investing in next generation skills development. The school teams will design, build and race a hydrogen-powered 1:10-scale RC car independently, learning how to pioneer new energy solutions through a process of hands-on learning.
The H2GP program has seen exponential growth in Australia this year, with a 2023 pilot race in Queensland expanding into 5 states and 450 students. Races are planned for Perth, Melbourne, Adelaide, Gold Coast and Central Queensland in 2024. The winners are expected to travel to Los Angeles in September to attend a World Final race.
“We’re excited to support the H2GP program again this year. At ABB, we’re committed to ensuring equitable access to STEM education and building the next generation’s skills to create a sustainable future.” said Abhinav Harikumar, Energy Industries Division Manager at ABB Australia. “It’s great to see how this program helps students learn innovative technologies and develop skills to solve real world challenges.”
The program also aligns to ABB’s commitment to champion diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. By breaking down barriers and fostering equal opportunities, partners of the program like ABB are building a more diverse and dynamic workforce.
“Diversity and inclusion in STEM are core components of the H2GP program”, said Ales Rakovsky, APAC Director at Horizon Educational. “When we talk about a next generation workforce, people usually focus on skills. But equally important is providing opportunities to empower every member of society to play a vital role.”
The H2GP initiative is a global school-based science and engineering program run by Horizon Educational, providing hands-on experience designing, engineering and racing radio-controlled fuel cell electric vehicles powered by hydrogen. Students taking part gain employable skills in science and technology while also developing competence in critical thinking, creativity and teamwork.
Schools and organisations interested in becoming involved with the program can find out more here.
Horizon Educational: Founded in 2003, Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies began the sale of miniature fuel cells to demonstrate the technology to schools and students around the world, while investing in R&D of more advanced products and industrial applications. In 2013, Horizon Educational Group was formed as an independent division dedicated to the deployment of a complete range of educational solutions. Horizon Educational develop, produce and distribute hands-on teaching material and didactic equipment as well as online curricula and educational programs. With distributors in over 150 countries, the STEM kits and technical training equipment have an international reputation for quality, educational content and award-winning design.
