A different sort of fast food takes to the track as UNL hosts the “Incredible, Edible Vehicle Competition” from 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 9 in the East Union Great Plains Room.
The event will feature students in Mark Riley’s introductory biological systems and agricultural engineering class demonstrating edible car designs. The event, designed to foster teamwork among students, was started many years ago by recently retired professor Dennis Schulte.
All entries must be made entirely of food as students must eat their car at the end of the competition.
Prior to eating, the student teams roll the cars down a sloped track to see which one travels farthest and holds together. Teams also create a poster detailing the car making process.
The event, which is part of Engineering Day, is coordinated by Evan Curtis, student services coordinator with biological systems engineering.
Curtis said the competition draws several unique designs using a variety of products each year. Materials can include vegetables, sausage, cheese and candy. And, students must complete the builds within a preset calorie limit.
Curtis expects to have 29 freshman teams competing as well as several alumni returning to show their support in the form of a mini-career fair. Also in attendance will be 18 senior instrumentation posters.
