Ride-On-Car: Our Journey to Inclusive Innovation

Angelina Apodaca
February 13, 2025

Ride-On-Car: Our Journey to Inclusive Innovation

Under the guidance of Angelina Apodaca, our team of engineering students embarked on a project that combines creativity with technical skill. We set out to transform ride-on cars so that every child, regardless of their mobility challenges, can experience the joy of riding.

How It All Started

Inspired by the Go Baby Go initiative, we recognized that small design changes could make a big difference. Our goal was to create a ride-on car that not only looked cool but also worked for everyone. We wanted to show what we’re capable of, both for future job opportunities and potential sponsorships.

Our Approach

  • Adaptive Controls: We added an easy-to-press button to the steering system. This simple feature empowers children with upper mobility challenges to steer on their own.
  • Enhanced Comfort: We replaced the standard hard plastic seat with an ergonomically designed, cushioned seat. The result? A ride that supports good posture and overall comfort.
  • Smart Safety: We developed a Bluetooth remote control so that parents or guardians can step in when needed, ensuring a secure ride every time.

Learning Along the Way

Working closely with the NAPA Center, we got direct feedback from patients, parents, and therapists. This real-world input helped us refine our design and prove that our ideas could make a meaningful impact.

Our Team

Our group—Sebastian Azaldegui, David Duarte, Lizbeth Garcia, Kevin Le, Ethen Moyanmakl, Alejandro Ontiveros, Rebecca Sabino, and Stephane Tatchimkouam—brings diverse skills and a shared passion for innovation. Together, we’re not just building a project; we’re building a future where inclusive design is the norm.

Snapshots of Our Journey

From brainstorming sessions to hands-on prototype testing, every step of our process is captured in photos. These snapshots highlight our challenges, our successes, and our relentless drive to innovate.

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Looking Forward

Ride-On-Car isn’t just another project—it’s our chance to demonstrate our abilities and commitment to inclusive engineering. We’re excited about the road ahead and welcome future opportunities to collaborate with sponsors and industry professionals who share our vision. To become a sponsor, please contact our Treasurer at adapttexas@gmail.com