LKQ Euro Car Parts puts pedal to the metal to support Bolton's next generation of engineers

Date: Friday 16 June 2023

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LKQ Euro Car Parts and Bolton-based Whitecroft Garage are getting local primary school kids revved up about automotive engineering through support for an eco-friendly electric vehicle (EV) kit car project.

The companies have both given donations to help fund the project, which has seen pupils at Holy Infant and St Anthony R.C Primary School in Bolton band together to build the IET Formula Goblin G2 kit car in partnership with Greenpower Education Trust.

Year 5 pupils at the school designed and built the car during after-school workshops, and – in what will become an annual event – will be putting through its paces at a regional race day on June 29 in Darlington, organised by Greenpower.

Not only has the project helped students develop their skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), it’s also given them the chance to be creative – designing and developing the bodywork to truly make the vehicle their own.

The sustainable nature of the kit car, which is battery powered, also means it can be deconstructed and used again, inspiring students at the school to learn more about the automotive industry for years to come.

The project initially came to the attention of LKQ Euro Car Parts through its customer, Bolton-based Whitecroft Garage, which had been contacted by the school to ask if it could support the project.

Kevan Wooden, chief commercial officer, at LKQ Euro Car Parts, said:

“When Whitecroft Garage came to us with this opportunity we knew getting involved would be a no-brainer.

“It’s so important that young people are given the opportunity to explore an interest in engineering and mechanics at an early stage in their education, and being able to build a working car from scratch could not be a better way to do it.”

Glynne Lever, director at Whitecroft Garage, said:

“This is such a unique project that gives young talent in our community a chance to learn about the basics of mechanics and electrics.

“Getting the next generation interested in vehicles at an early age is so important for our trade, and we’re really looking forward to following these pupils on the rest of their automotive journey.”

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