Meet the Young Innovator Behind Odisha's Solar-Powered Electric Vehicle!

In Bhabanipatana, a Class IX student has made headlines by constructing a two-seater solar-powered electric vehicle named ‘Volt X’ from scrap materials. Swaraj Satapathy dedicated three months to this project, blending his engineering knowledge with hands-on skills. The vehicle, which can reach speeds of 25 km/h and travel up to 60 km on a single charge, was inaugurated at his school, receiving accolades from school officials. This remarkable achievement highlights the potential of young innovators in the field of renewable energy and engineering.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 22, 2026, 09:42 IST

A Remarkable Achievement in Bhabanipatana

Bhabanipatana: A ninth-grade student from Vikas Residential School has ingeniously crafted a two-seater solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) using discarded materials sourced from a garage.

Swaraj Satapathy dedicated approximately three months to this project, merging his knowledge of energy and engineering with practical skills, ultimately naming his creation ‘Volt X’.

This four-wheeled EV operates on a 48-volt battery and features a disc brake system. It can reach speeds of up to 25 km/h and travel between 50 to 60 kilometers on a single charge, as stated by Satapathy. He revealed that he had envisioned this vehicle for a year before embarking on its construction, attributing his success to the unwavering support of his father, Rajib Lochan Satapathy, which enabled him to complete the project in just three months.

Upon finishing the vehicle, Satapathy showcased it at his school, where it was officially inaugurated by Chairman D Nageshwar Rao before being presented to the public.

Rao, alongside school director D Shyam, co-director D Ram Kumar, chief education officer D Bijaya, D Padmini, chief administrator Yuvaraj Nayak, and Principal Arati Mishra, praised Satapathy for his accomplishment and encouraged him to pursue further innovative projects.