In an inspiring demonstration of STEAM principles in action, a group of dedicated Detroit high school students embarked on an ambitious project: the assembly of a 1965 Ford Daytona Coupe. This hands-on learning experience, a collaboration between Ford Motor Company Fund, Detroit Public Schools Community District, and Experience Aviation, provided over 50 career and technical education students with a unique opportunity to bring a legendary piece of automotive history to life.
A Ground-Up Transformation: Over an intensive 18-week period, these students meticulously pieced together nearly 1,000 individual components to construct a fully working replica of the iconic 1965 Ford Daytona Coupe. This wasn’t just about following instructions; it was a deep dive into the mechanics, engineering, and design that underpin a high-performance vehicle.
Powertrain and Performance Details: The student-built Daytona Coupe is powered by a robust Ford 306 engine, capable of delivering an impressive 350 horsepower. This potent engine is paired with a Ford TK5 transmission, offering a classic and engaging driving experience. To further enhance its handling capabilities, the vehicle was equipped with a new independent rear suspension system. The engine, transmission, and rear suspension were provided with support from Ford Fund, highlighting the commitment to providing students with quality components for their learning endeavor. The design of the car itself was based on a kit provided by Factory Five Racing Inc., known for their high-quality replica vehicles.
Learning Beyond the Assembly Line: This project transcended the simple act of putting parts together. With instructional support from Experience Aviation, the students applied principles from Ford’s STEAM Lab digital curriculum. This curriculum emphasizes the integration of Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics, demonstrating how these disciplines converge in the modern automotive industry. By actively participating in the build, the students gained invaluable practical skills and a firsthand understanding of the intricate processes involved in vehicle construction.
A Glimpse into Automotive Careers: Beyond the technical skills acquired, the project aimed to increase the students’ awareness of technology-based career opportunities within the automotive sector and related fields. By experiencing the complexities of assembling a high-performance vehicle, the students gained a tangible understanding of the diverse roles and expertise required in the industry, potentially sparking an interest in pursuing STEAM-related careers.
A Lasting Legacy of Learning: The culmination of this 18-week endeavor saw the students unveil and even test their creation at Ford’s Dearborn Development Center. This provided a powerful sense of accomplishment and a real-world context for their hard work. The project stands as a testament to the power of hands-on learning and the potential of young minds when given the opportunity to engage with complex engineering and design challenges.
Summary:
- Detroit high school students built a working 1965 Ford Daytona Coupe replica.
- The project involved assembling nearly 1,000 parts over 18 weeks.
- The car features a Ford 306 engine (350 hp), Ford TK5 transmission, and new independent rear suspension.
- Students applied STEAM principles through the build process.
- The initiative aimed to teach vital skills and raise awareness of STEAM careers.
- The project was a collaboration between Ford Fund, Detroit Public Schools, and Experience Aviation.
Disclaimer: This article reflects a project undertaken in 2017 where Detroit high school students built a replica of a 1965 Ford Daytona Coupe as an educational initiative. The vehicle’s specifications and performance are based on the components used in the build and may differ from an original 1965 model.
Source: Ford
AI Assistance: Chatgpt
