Youngsters took over Ford Dunton to take compete in the regional final of the The Institution of Engineering and Technology Formula Goblin project.

Students from eight local primary schools designed and built their own electric cars and then raced them on the Dunton test track.

The electric car challenge aims to inspire children to get involved in engineering in a fun and innovative way. Students get everything they need to make their electric cars in a flat-pack package.

Using the step-by-step instructions, and with teacher guidance and an industry mentor, the team design, build and then race their own electric car.

The build can be integrated into the student’s curriculum to highlight key areas such as friction, electricity, materials, maths and design technology, which is a fun and hands-on activity.

Ford is keen to encourage and inspire more young people to get involved in and consider a career in STEM (Science, technology, Engineering, Mathematics) professions.

As well as Formula Goblins, outreach projects in which Ford is involved include First Lego League Challenge, celebration of National Women in Engineering day, IT Skills for Beginners and Bring a Child to work day.

Ford is also a partner with the YourLife campaign, a three-year campaign to ensure young adults in the UK have the maths and science skills needed to succeed in the current competitive global economy.

Nicola Gregory, Project Specialist, Events, Community & Outreach at Ford Dunton, said: “This is a great opportunity for children to get involved in and learn about engineering from a young age.

"Ford actively encourages young people to study STEM activities, and this is a perfect example."