The project will create an accessible and innovative augmented reality (AR) app which uses gamification to train people in real world generative design and ?engineering through the building of virtual electric go karts to grow the diverse talent pipeline for the Power Electronics Machines & Drives (PEMD) sectors.

Targeted at underrepresented youth, the app will extend the national reach and engagement of The Blair Project's ProtoEV STEM Challenge where schools, youth clubs and college teams (age 13-19) transform used petrol go karts into fully electric ekarts which they test and race to see which is the fastest and most energy efficient. Students gain hands on skills related to computer aided manufacturing, design for assembly, power electronics, electric motor, drives and battery technologies aligned to the needs of the PEMD manufacturing and supply chains sector.

The AR app will enable diverse talent of all ages and abilities to disassemble and assemble virtual go karts, make pre-determined modifications, interact with components and receive audio-visual cues so they can learn at their own pace.

This immersive learning app seeks to change the way young people learn about the PEMD skills and technologies involved in electric vehicle systems, powered by battery technologies, making learning fun and engaging. The ProtoEV app builds on an existing immersive electrification skills training app developed by Fuzzy Logic as part of an industry-led and co-designed Emerging Skills Project, funded by the Department of Education to rapidly upskill, reskill and new skill existing employees in the PEMD manufacturing and supply chains to accelerate the path to net zero.

EDI will be a critical focus for the ProtoEV app. The main aim is to drive inclusivity and diversity in key areas of the UK's PEMD workforce, building on and complementing existing skills initiatives in electrification sectors.

The ultimate goal is to generate higher student engagement and interest in PEMD careers and allow students to learn anywhere and anytime. Web based metrics will be used to measure user engagement and progression pathways linked to the PEMD Skills Hub, which showcases and signposts to further PEMD training courses and career opportunities across all levels.

The use of gamification and immersive technologies is an innovative mechanism to engage with youth less likely to consider engineering careers, in a way that has never been done before by the PEMD sector. Adapting the existing ESP Automotive Electrification Skills training app for electric go karts is novel.