During the "Young Car Mechanic" competition organized by the "Inter Cars" group in Lithuania in June, a project was undertaken where participants had to repair a used car, which was later handed over to representatives from war-torn Ukraine.
Ten young mechanics participating in the competition and three guest mechanics had to complete not only the tasks prepared by the organizers and partners but also an additional one.
In the "New Old Car" project, they had to repair a 2016 Hyundai i20 that had been used by "Inter Cars Lietuva" employees.
As Andrius Žilėnas, the Head of the Training Department at "Inter Cars Lietuva," explained, previous competitions lacked teamwork. It was noticeable that participants often avoided communicating with each other – they completed tasks and dispersed. There was a desire to change this.
Thus, the idea was born to bring them together for a common project to develop teamwork skills. Not only did the young mechanics have to contribute, but also their teachers, parts, and equipment suppliers.
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During this project, the mechanics had to identify and fix all the defects of the used car. They had to replace brake components, the alternator belt, gearbox and engine oil, wipers, batteries, and more.
"It was not a major overhaul, but a significant technical maintenance with a considerable advance. After this, the car should serve for a long time," A. Žilėnas evaluated the work.
Additionally, during the "Young Car Mechanic" competition, this car was used for one of the tasks – participants had to change both engine and gearbox oil.
The young mechanics did not encounter major problems while working on the Hyundai i20, except for one instance where it was extremely difficult to unscrew some bolts, like the brake disc mounting bolt. Just like in real life. However, representatives of one of the competition's tool partners helped with equipment and advice.
According to A. Žilėnas, this project was organized for the first time, but it might become a regular one as it helps in team building, boosts the participants' morale, and allows them to work together for a common goal.
However, preparing for the "New Old Car" task was not the easiest: the competition organizers and partners had to ensure in advance that all necessary parts, appropriate equipment, and tools were available on-site, and that the work was done punctually and on time.
This car was handed over to representatives of one of the organizations providing support to Ukraine, who will ensure it reaches those who need it most. (In fact, this car was handed over to representatives of Ukraines military forces (54-й окремий розвідувальний батальйон).
"This is an economy-class car, definitely not suitable for military operations. But Ukraine currently needs civilian vehicles as well.
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Therefore, the "New Old Car" project was definitely successful, as this car was used for tasks, promoted collaboration skills, and ultimately performed a noble deed," concluded the Head of the Training Department at "Inter Cars Lietuva."