SCC Adds Electric Volvo to Automotive Training Fleet

Exciting developments are underway at the Automotive Technologies Department of Spartanburg Community College! Thanks to the Revolutionizing Electric Vehicle Education Consortium (REVVED) Grant, we are proud to announce the addition of a cutting-edge 2023 Volvo C40 fully electric vehicle to our training fleet.

This state-of-the-art acquisition complements our existing lineup of hybrid vehicles, ensuring our students receive comprehensive education in the latest automotive technologies.

In collaboration with Trident Technical College, Greenville Technical College, and Clemson University, SCC's Automotive Technologies Program Director David Vizcaya and Instructor David Wellbaum are spearheading the creation of a groundbreaking curriculum as part of the REVVED program. Designed to be utilized by automotive programs nationwide, this curriculum aims to equip future technicians with the essential skills needed to thrive in the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) market.

Recognizing the importance of proper training in handling high-voltage systems, SCC is taking a leading role in EV education. To enhance learning experiences, we are developing a series of virtual training videos, utilizing augmented reality systems, and leveraging the expertise of our faculty members. This multifaceted approach ensures our students gain hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge in electric vehicle manufacturing and service.

Click here to read more about the REVVED program.

David Vizcaya, SCC's Program Director, emphasizes the significance of this initiative: "EV and hybrid vehicles are considered High Voltage, and without the proper training, this can be dangerous." SCC's commitment to safety and innovation shines through as we pave the way for a new era of automotive education.

Mark Smith, SCC’s Dean of Technologies, discussed the unique focus the College is placing on innovative and unique automotive curriculum: “The automotive industry is undergoing rapid technological advances. The first gasoline powered internal combustion engine was invented over 100 years ago. It took more than a century before vehicle electrification would become widely accepted into the automotive market. In 1997 Toyota released the Prius, the first mass produced hybrid electric vehicle. We are now seeing that same emerging technology in all sectors of the transportation industry.”

“Not only is the automotive industry undergoing change, so is the commercial truck and heavy equipment industries,” Smith continued. “Spartanburg Community College is dedicated to preparing technicians for both the jobs of today and for the jobs of tomorrow with cutting edge curriculum development and programs such as the much-anticipated Diesel Power and Emerging Technologies program that will be introduced this fall at our Cherokee County Campus.”

Click here to learn more about our Diesel Power and Emerging Technologies program.

Stay tuned for further updates as SCC continues to drive progress in the automotive industry and prepares the next generation of skilled technicians for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.