At the EV Now’s EVs on Display event in Hermanus, a striking array of electric vehicles, including a Tesla and a vibrant blue electric G-Wagon, captivated attendees. However, the highlight of the showcase was a 17-year-old who created an innovative app in just two hours, designed to help South Africans calculate how to power their electric vehicles using solar energy.
The event served as a platform for the public to engage with electric vehicles, offering a hands-on experience free from typical sales pitches. A key feature of the showcase was a competition launched four months prior, aimed at high school students to dispel myths surrounding electric vehicles and encourage practical design solutions.
Seven of the eight high schools in the Overstrand area participated, with students tackling various categories such as essays, infographics, and app development. Ultimately, one entry stood out: a functional piece of software that resembled work from a seasoned developer. This initiative not only highlighted the potential of youth innovation but also emphasized the importance of integrating renewable energy solutions into everyday transportation.