ASPIRE
Re-envisioning Our Transportation & Power Grid Systems for a Resilient Future
Revolutionizing the way our roadways and power grid integrate is at the heart of the ASPIRE Engineering Research Center.
The aim of ASPIRE is to create a transportation network that wirelessly charges all sizes of electric vehicles (EVs) through innovative grid-connected pavements.
The benefits of ASPIRE include reducing emissions, improving air quality, and increasing access to EVs and fast charging infrastructure for all.
Watch: Introducing ASPIRE (video)
Classroom-Ready ASPIRE K-12 Curricula
- K-5 lesson-activity pairs explore connections between air quality, climate & transportation
- Middle school activities investigate electrical energy and magnetism concepts related to ASPIRE research
- High school project-based modules integrate engineering design, air quality & climate, and environmental resiliency themes through a transportation lens
What is ASPIRE?
ASPIRE is a National Science Foundation funded project to transform our transportation and grid systems.
ASPIRE’s vision is to eliminate range and charging as barriers to electric vehicle use. Solutions include wireless and plug-in charging system that are integrated into roadways, parking, and the grid.
ASPIRE is preparing the workforce and communities of the future to understand, operate within, and design for resilient electric infrastructure.
Explore ASPIRE Engineering Curricula
K-2 Resources
Air Quality and Transportation:
- Cars and Air Quality Connections (Lesson)
- Air Quality and Particulate Matter (Activity)
Climate Change and Transportation:
- Climate Change and Cars (K-2) (Lesson)
- Carbon Emissions: Carl’s Carbon! (Activity)
3-5 Resources
Air Quality and Transportation:
- Internal Combustion Engine, Electric Vehicles & Air Quality Connections (Lesson)
- Air Quality and Weather Connections (Activity)
Climate Change and Transportation:
- Climate Change and Cars (3-5) (Lesson)
- Carbon Emissions: Pardon My Carbon! (Activity)
In support of ASPIRE's efforts to support K-12 engineering education, our children's book, Evie, is a great resource to introduce electric vehicles to young learners. Join Evie and her friends who set out on a journey to discover a way to make her abuela (grandmother) and the planet healthier. Taking lead from great female scientists and engineers - both past and present, Evie and her friends learn all about electric vehicles and set out to inspire their community to embrace this new, clean technology.
Download Evie and Her Electric Adventure here.