Retrofitting for the Future: AEEE’s EV workshop sparks innovation at Don Bosco Technical School, Shillong

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 3, 2024

Retired Commissioner of Transport E. Kharmalki observed that converting old vehicles into electric vehicles is a smart process to use resources responsibly.

“Retrofitting old vehicles can help Meghalaya’s transportation system lower its carbon emissions from aging cars. Older vehicles tend to pollute more. Rather than scrapping these old vehicles, converting them into electric vehicles is a smart way to use resources responsibly. This workshop will lay the groundwork for training our students to do such conversions, making Meghalaya self-reliant in this area” he said.

He was speaking at the one-week training program at Don Bosco Technical School (DBTS), Shillong organised by the Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy (AEEE), in collaboration with Autobot India.

This initiative stands out not just for its focus on the burgeoning field of electric vehicles (EVs) and retrofitting technologies but also for its concerted efforts to include women and persons with disabilities, preparing them for a flourishing future in the EV space.

The program was inaugurated in the presence of dignitaries including Kharmalki, alongside officials from the Meghalaya State Skills Development Society (MSSDS), NIT Meghalaya, Martin Luther Christian University (MLCU), National Career Service Centres for Differently Abled, and Barefoot Trust.

The gathering underscored the collaborative spirit and wide-reaching support for the initiative.

Meanwhile, Vikas Nimesh, Senior Research Associate, AEEE said that skill development is a key pillar in the growth of e-mobility.

“Skilled professionals can boost consumer confidence, similar to how we rely on experienced technicians for petrol and diesel vehicles. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) will create numerous opportunities for people. It’s important to prepare everyone for these future prospects, ensuring these opportunities are inclusive. Women, individuals with disabilities, and members of marginalized communities should all have equal chances and be equipped for success, ensuring no one is left behind,” he said.

A key feature of the program is a live project converting an old petrol vehicle to electric, offering students a tangible grasp of the technology and its transformative potential. This hands-on approach not only enriches the students’ understanding but also showcases the practical benefits and innovative prowess of electric vehicles.