Discover the Future of Automotive Education: Integrating Electric Vehicles into Your Classroom
Are you an automotive instructor or educator wondering how to prepare students for the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs)? In this insightful webinar, hosted by ConsuLab, experts Dave Giles and Nathan Banky dive deep into EV classroom integration, offering practical strategies to bring cutting-edge technology into your programs. Whether you’re teaching at a high school, community college, or technical institute, this session demystifies the shift toward electrification and highlights why EVs represent an opportunity, not a threat, in automotive education.
The webinar kicks off with a historical overview of EV history, reminding us that electric vehicles aren’t new—they’ve been around since the early 1900s, even favored by Henry Ford’s wife for their reliability. Fast-forward to today, and the automotive industry is undergoing more changes in the next five years than in the last 50, driven by advanced vehicle technologies like AI, Battery Technology, and efficient Drive Units. Learn how these innovations are pushing even combustion engines to new heights of power and fuel efficiency.
A core focus is on building a program tailored to EV integration in the classroom. From EV curriculum development to addressing challenges like cost, time, and packed schedules, the presenters share actionable insights. They emphasize incorporating hybrids, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and battery electric vehicles into existing courses, starting with basics like EV terminology—think state of charge (akin to fuel levels) and kilowatt-hours (like gas tank size). Discover how to blend EV concepts seamlessly, such as comparing fuel systems to high voltage cables and batteries, or emission systems to enhanced safety protocols.
Safety is paramount in high voltage safety training. The experts outline redundant safety systems, PPE requirements, and the “triangle of success”: proper training, equipment, and information. Explore EV maintenance and service, where less moving parts mean more emphasis on electrical fundamentals, power flow, and diagnostics. Batteries last 1,500–3,000 cycles, often outlasting the vehicle itself (up to 1.2 million kilometers), shifting focus to routine tasks like brake jobs, tire servicing, and thermal management systems.
Tools and equipment for EVs are covered extensively, from isolation testers and milli-ohm meters to training aids like ConsuLab’s flagship EV-601 Tesla-based trainer. These resources allow safe, hands-on practice with inverters, contactors, and DC-DC converters without high-risk exposure. The session also touches on first responders’ EV protocols, cold weather battery limitations (mitigated by preconditioning and heat pumps), and real-world applications like EV tests for diagnostics.
Q&A highlights address safety standards (evolving from utility to automotive-specific like CSA and SAE), warranty myths, and battery weight impacts (800–1,100 lbs, but comparable to ICE powertrains). This webinar is the first in a monthly series—next up: November 8th on high voltage training aids and more.
Don’t miss this chance to equip your students for the EV-driven workforce. Watch the recording on ConsuLab’s YouTube channel, subscribe for updates, and access the PowerPoint via consulab.com. Empower your automotive education with EV classroom integration today—register for future sessions and stay ahead in hybrid vehicles training and beyond!