From batteries to electric vehicles!

Ten students aged 13 to 16 took part in Battery Camp 2026 on March 26, an event organized by e-mobil BW GmbH at the TechCampus of Heilbronn University (HHN). The goal of the event was to provide young people with hands-on insights into electric mobility and battery technology and to spark an early interest in technical careers.

Hands-on learning: Building and testing electric vehicles

The one-day workshop focused on the independent construction and testing of electric vehicles. Working in teams, the students designed their own vehicles and then tested them on a course. Already in the morning, the participants demonstrated a remarkably high level of technical understanding: They were able to precisely identify key components such as the battery, charging port, and drive system, and were exceptionally quick in assembling the vehicles. The students also actively participated during the technical input session led by Prof. Andreas Daberkow, Professor of Electric Vehicle Systems and Virtual Product Development at Heilbronn University, answering questions and contributing their knowledge. 

The combination of lecture and hands-on application proved to be both educational and exciting. Afterward, the practical assembly of the electric vehicles began—guided by staff from Heilbronn University and the Faszination Technik association. In the subsequent course, the teams competed against each other in small contests with their self-built electric karts—accompanied by great enthusiasm, team spirit, and visible joy in the shared task. 

Inspiring interest in electric mobility and battery technology through STEM promotion

The event was designed to specifically attract girls to STEM topics and break down existing gender stereotypes. It was a success: The Battery Camp demonstrated that interest in electric mobility is very high among both genders. Girls and boys worked together enthusiastically and quickly formed effective teams that interacted with each other in a fun and open-minded way.

The program was rounded out by a personal insight into battery research: Katharina Bischof, a doctoral candidate at the Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Württemberg (ZSW), spoke about her career path and encouraged the participants to explore their own paths in the industry. 

Voltage empowers tomorrow’s professionals

In Germany, Voltage is coordinated by e-mobil BW GmbH—the State Agency for New Mobility Solutions and Automotive Baden-Württemberg. Through hands-on formats like the Battery Camp, e-mobil BW actively contributes to securing a skilled workforce and supports the next generation in a key industry of the future.