On June 4, 2024, the halls of buzzed with excitement as students and staff gathered for the grand unveiling of the Reding Electric Vehicle (REV). This innovative project, a near-scale replica of Henry Ford鈥檚 1896 prototype Quadricycle, represents a fusion of antique aesthetics and modern technology.
The REV, designed to emulate the original Quadricycle鈥檚 vintage charm, was a year-long endeavour that brought together multiple departments within the school. Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) students collaborated on this project, tackling numerous design challenges under the guidance of their dedicated teachers. This multidisciplinary approach ensured the vehicle was constructed with high quality and performance standards.
Students from various programs, including Advanced Placement (AP), the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), and Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), played crucial roles in the project. Their involvement spanned problem-solving, design, and construction, demonstrating the practical applications of classroom learning.
鈥淧rojects like these allow students to use the theories they learn in one class toward hands-on applications in another class. Working together, students can harmonize their talents during the build and be exposed to different future career opportunities as they approach their post-secondary pathways,鈥� said Cesar Da Silva, project coordinator.
While the REV retains the Quadricycle鈥檚 iconic ladder-frame design, stick steering lever, and single couch seat, the students introduced several modern twists. Instead of a gasoline engine, the vehicle is powered by a brushless electric motor. The team also designed and built a solar charging station, allowing the REV to charge its batteries sustainably, without cost or environmental impact. Additionally, engineering students developed a radar-based collision detection system that automatically slows the vehicle to prevent accidents.
“When designing and building the REV, being a part of the experience was engaging and exciting, while also being educational and built problem solving skills,” said Olivia Lukito, Grade 11 SHSM Transportation student. “We encountered many different obstacles that required re-designing and re-planning, which taught us patience and collaboration which led us to the completion of the final REV. From this experience we gained life skills, along with knowledge of design, and building, which can be applied in all subjects.”
The unveiling event was a proud moment for the Bishop Reding community. Principal Rocco Di Ianni, a key supporter of the project, took the REV for its inaugural lap around the theatre, followed by a photo session with the project team. The Reding Electric Vehicle now stands as a testament to collaborative learning, innovation, and the hard work of Bishop Reding鈥檚 students and staff.
“To make something extraordinary like the REV, it requires consistent effort, dedication, and teamwork to make it all come together,” said Muhanned Al-Yafi, Grade 12 Transportation student. “I learned that with the many components that came to create the REV, we needed the contributions of many different students within the STEM programs to gather and finish the project.”
The REV will continue to inspire future generations at Bishop Reding Catholic Secondary School, showcasing the power of hands-on learning and the remarkable achievements that can result from teamwork and dedication.
