On 9th November 2024, Team Altilium, a group of 15 students from Garden International School, had an unforgettable experience participating in a first-of-its-kind project in Malaysia—the Bufori-EViE Cup Challenge. This thrilling event led by Design & Technology teacher, Mr. Ian Wade marked the culmination of a year-long project in which GIS students built an electric racing car as part of one of our CCAs (co-curricular activities).
Fueling Bright Ideas
A firm believer in combining intellect and passion through hands-on, project-based learning, Mr. Wade envisioned a new type of STEM-based CCA: schools building and racing electric cars. Mr. Wade had the good fortune to connect with Gerry Khouri and Felix Haller, founders and owners of the luxury car manufacturer Bufori. United by a shared vision and passion for the project’s potential, they launched Bufori-EViE (Electric Vehicles in Education).
From Concept to Creation
In the 12 months leading up to Race Day, during their CCA Club, the students produced a comprehensive portfolio alongside the car build. This portfolio documents each phase of the project, including marketing strategies, enterprise research, their approach to team management, a deep dive into sustainability, and a study of engineering principles. As a result, this initiative not only sparks a love for engineering in students but also offers a platform to explore interests in management, marketing, and other areas within the EViE project.
To foster healthy competition and broaden the reach of this exciting initiative, additional schools joined the challenge following an invitation from Mr. Wade to participate in a pilot project designed to immerse students in real-world STEM activities. With seven schools signed up—namely Garden International, Alice Smith, Charterhouse Malaysia, HELP International, IGB International, SRI KDU International, and St. Joseph’s International—the stage was set for an unforgettable race day experience.
Racing Through Challenges
Race day at the Beranang Horizon Circuit in Selangor was a thrilling mix of excitement and nerves. Team Altilium’s car performed spectacularly – charging through the pack with speed and precision – stealing an early lead, recording the fastest lap and leading the race for most of the competition. However, an unexpected setback – several wheel nuts working their way loose caused the team to lose speed and eventually a wheel fell off entirely. Despite this mechanical mishap, the team completed the race in a commendable fifth place, proving their determination and adaptability under pressure. The students were thrilled with their performance, celebrating not only their race day achievements but also the resilience and teamwork that carried them through the entire project.
Reflecting on the experience, Mr. Wade emphasised the importance of preparing students for the adult world by exposing them to challenging, relevant, interdisciplinary “real-world projects with real-world outcomes,” where the opportunity to succeed is balanced by the risk of failure. Throughout this project, our students have showcased exceptional dedication, teamwork, resourcefulness, resilience, and a genuine passion for learning.
The Bufori-EViE project is poised for growth, with three schools from Switzerland joining and starting the EViE initiative, along with interest from schools in Singapore and Thailand. Additionally, plans are underway to introduce primary and post-16 categories in Kuala Lumpur in the future. This expansion is set to spark even greater enthusiasm for sustainable engineering among students at Garden International School and other schools, driving innovation to new heights.
Bufori’s THRIVE Internship Empowering GIS Students
Fueled by a passion for supporting and nurturing student learning in the field of engineering, Bufori has partnered with Garden International School to offer THRIVE Internships for Year 12 students. This 4-week internship with Bufori has had a lasting impact, sparking and strengthening students’ passion for engineering and inspiring them to pursue this path at leading global universities.
Isaac Pau, an aspiring engineering student currently studying at Cambridge University (UK), credited his internship experience at Bufori with reaffirming his resolve to study engineering at this prestigious, world-class university.
Interested in discovering more about our innovative learning environment and curriculum? Our friendly admissions team is here to help with any enquiries you might have. Submit your application today and take the first step toward an enriching educational journey for your child!
By Ian Wade, Teacher of Design and Technology
