Members of the Purdue Electric Vehicle Club pose around the electric vehicle they built

One of the many Motorsports student organizations at Purdue University is the Purdue Electric Vehicle Club (EVC). What sets EVC apart is its unwavering dedication to electric vehicle technology.

Matthew Kane, a senior in the Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, is president of the Club. He says their main focus is an event called the evGrandPrix, which is similar to the annual Grand Prix, which races gas-powered go-karts, but with electric vehicles

“The evGRandPrix not only emphasizes speed but also energy efficiency and design ingenuity,” says Kane. “That means it's not just about winning races; it's about optimizing energy usage and showcasing PEV’s engineering capabilities through design reports and presentations."

While the evGrandPrix takes center stage, EVC’s endeavors extend far beyond the racetrack. Kane says the club’s other projects include EV conversions, custom vehicle design, and lithium battery development. He emphasizes that PEV isn’t just about building vehicles; it's about nurturing talent and fostering leadership. Kane says the club provides plenty of opportunities for students to lead projects and hone their skills.

For Kane, EVC has been more than just a club—it's been a gateway to professional opportunities.

"I landed my internship, which eventually led to a full-time job, through connections made in PEV,” he says. “It's incredible to see how our alumni have become industry partners, bridging the gap between academia and real-world applications.”

PEV’s engineering prowess will be on display at the evGrandPrix, which is set for this Saturday, April 13, at 4:30 p.m. at the Purdue Grand Prix track. The event is free and open to the public.