Research and innovative design of a zeroemissions vehicle by multidisciplinary student teams in multi-years

This paper presents a unique learning and research experience for students from mechanical and electrical engineering majors in a course on senior design projects involving research and development, design and production of a proof-of-concept electric vehicle, the ZEM (Zero EMissions) vehicle. The ZEM vehicle combined positive aspects and latest technologies in electric vehicle design,solar-electric power conversions, and ergonomic human power into one affordable and environmentally sustainable vehicle for urban transportation. The 43 mechanical and 10 electrical engineering majors plus 7 students from business participated in this multidisciplinary project spanned over two academic years. The students involved in this multiyear endeavor gained valuable experiences in real-world working environment with multifunctional and multi-year sub-groups. The success of this new attempt in conducting senior design projects classes have set a model for faculty members in the authors' university in conducting similar courses.