Summary
- Oregon Ducks vs Ohio State Buckeyes in Rose Bowl Game
- First electric vehicle-powered float in Rose Bowl Parade
- Float features robotics, drones, Martian theme
- Sustainable practices in float design and materials
- Youth training program at TechNovation Center aimed at teaching various skills
Article
The Oregon Ducks and Ohio State Buckeyes face off in the Rose Bowl Game with a special treat for electric vehicle fans – the first-ever float powered by an electric vehicle in the parade. The Mars-themed float showcases various technological advancements and sets a new standard for the parade’s tech-forward reputation. The float, designed by Ernest Koeppen, President of the La Cañada Flintridge Tournament of Roses Association, features robotics, drones, and other innovative elements.
The electric vehicle on the float is a unique creation assembled over the years by the Tournament of Roses Association, weighing between 20,000 to 30,000 pounds. The float’s power source has transitioned from V8 engines to six LiFePo battery packs, providing over 150 KWh of energy. The choice of iron phosphate batteries was made for safety reasons due to the float’s close proximity to the public. This move towards electrification aligns with the growing trend of sustainability and resource management.
Resource management is a key focus for the La Cañada Flintridge Tournament of Roses Association, with a strong emphasis on recycling and repurposing float materials. The float’s design incorporates easily recyclable materials like steel, foams, and floral elements, while also utilizing re-usable sub-frames and hardware for long-lasting sustainability. By minimizing waste and maximizing reuse, the association sets an example for other parade participants to follow.
The float project also serves as a platform for a free youth training program known as the TechNovation Center, offering hands-on experience in welding, design, fabrication, robotics, and other disciplines under the “maker” umbrella. The center aims to provide students with practical skills while fostering creativity and innovation. By engaging with the community and supporting youth education, the association cultivates a new generation of high-tech art makers.
The Rose Parade’s showcase of sustainability through the electric vehicle float underscores the importance of large-scale events promoting green initiatives. The focus on creativity, ingenuity, and innovation serves as an inspiration for environmentally conscious practices. By leveraging the parade’s platform, the association demonstrates the potential for using high-profile events to drive social responsibility and resource stewardship. The inclusion of youth learning trade skills further enhances community engagement and knowledge transfer.
As the first electric vehicle float in the Rose Parade, this innovative creation symbolizes a shift towards cleaner and more sustainable practices in parade events. The use of battery power and advanced technologies on the float sets a new standard for future parade entries. By showcasing a commitment to sustainability and youth education, the La Cañada Flintridge Tournament of Roses Association paves the way for a greener, more innovative future in the world of parades and celebrations.
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