OSU EcoCAR: Who says smart can't be fun?

The OSU EcoCAR teamed up with Macy's and the clothing company, American Rag to promote ways to save energy on November, 15, 2008.  Team members talked to shoppers about the EcoCAR competition as well as what The Ohio State University and General Motors are doing to save energy consumption.  Not only did this event serve as an excellent outreach opportunity, but it also served a financial purpose as well.  Shoppers were asked to register with EcoCAR, one of the other energy-friendly groups represented at Macy's, or no one.  The group with the most associated registrants would be award a monetary prize.  Due to the excellent promotion of every team member, the EcoCAR team had the most people register; we will be receiving a check in the amount of $350 towards expenses for the project!

OSU EcoCAR at Macy's Green Shopping Event

Just after visiting Franklin Middle School, the team took a trip to Beechcroft High School.  The team members met with STEM Club students.  The high school students were very interested in learning about hybrid technology, and particularly EcoCAR.  Maybe some of them will be future OSU EcoCAR members!

On December 9th, members of the team traveled to Franklin Middle School.  There, they talked with the students about hybrid technology and climate change.  Afterwards, the team members helped the students with a robot project!

Team member, Beth Bezaire recently took a trip to Wooster, Ohio.  Beth took the ChallengeX Equinox to OSU's branch at Wooster for the Renewable Energy Woorkshop.  The event focused on sources for renewable energy, including bio-fuels.  The design for the Saturn VUE was well-suited for the event, and Beth was able to tell the public, students, and organizers of the event about EcoCAR.

This event was one of the biggest recruiting events thus far.  The team collected 81 email addresses from potential members and several of them have already begun attending meetings.  In addition to recruiting, the EcoCAR team also informed students about hybrid technology.

OSU - Penn State Tailgate before football game

The Penn State EcoCAR team brought their completed hybrid vehicle to Ohio State for the OSU-Penn State football game to display for the public at a tailgate beneath the Recreational and Physical Activities Center next to the football stadium. This was a great opportunity to discuss new technologies and intercollegiate relations.