Designing the vehicles of 2050

In this article: The business enterprise competition helps the next-generation of talent improve their core skills and shines a light on what the young think future transport will look like

The industry is going through huge amounts of change, with so many different forces acting on it, whether its changes to powertrain technologies, or increasing vehicle connectivity. But sometimes even these fast track changes can be behind the imagination of the younger generation.

Every year the IMI runs its business enterprise competition sponsored by Sytner Careers. Teams work in groups of 4 to 6 to design a vehicle of the future thinking about target audiences, USP and marketing strategies. The competition is aimed at key stage 3 students and focuses on improving core skills needed in the industry including teamwork, communication, leadership, employability and life skills.

This year saw a 64% increase in entries from schools across the UK with new inspiring ideas for future vehicles. The entries have been judged resulting in a top three to put forward to win the prize.

The winning team plus their teachers and parents will be treated to an automotive industry related experience day out. Previous prizes have included a day trip for the wining at Mercedes Benz World or a JLR experience day. During the day the team are treated to a VIP experience seeing exhibitions, using simulators and even a driving track experience.

Ideas for everyone

Outside the box from Hitchin Priory School, Hitchin, designed the Reco and Rainbow coloured car aimed at helping the LGBTQ+ community with the main safety feature of slotting your phone into a compartment to start the car which in hand means you cannot use your phone whilst driving.

Team Ramen, also from Hitchin Priory School, designed a family car specifically for those with disabled children. The key features included a button for easy communication with emergency serviced and GPD tracking devices for children to be able to find the car if they became lost.

And finally H20 vehicles from Kingsley school in Leamington Spa designed a family car powered by water. The vehicle included non-slamming doors, an internal vacuum cleaner and chairs that children can draw on.

The winner is due to be announced soon so keep your eyes open for the result. In the meantime the 2020 competition is now open and we’re looking for schools to show us what cars will look like in the next 100 years to mark the centenary year of the IMI. The future’s whatever pupils’ imagination can create.

Interested, find out more here or email careers@theimi.org.uk for more information.