College student builds 5-seater battery jeep in N’ganj
Sohel Mia, a college-going dreamer, has had a deep fascination with cars since childhood. He always dreamed of creating something on his own. Driven by that passion and relentless hard work, he has successfully built a small battery-powered jeep with his own hands.
Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Saiful Islam praised Sohel’s initiative, saying, “With determination and a willingness to work hard, it is possible to achieve great things even with limited resources. Sohel Mia has proven that. The upazila administration is always ready to support such innovators.”
This compact vehicle features an advanced braking system and can carry up to five passengers. Despite limited resources, Sohel used his creativity and technical knowledge to bring his idea to life, earning widespread admiration in his local community. People from different areas are now visiting his home just to see the vehicle.
Sohel Mia is the son of Firoz Mia from the Kaladi area of Kanchan Municipality in Rupganj Upazila. He is currently a second-year honors student at Murapara Government College. Alongside his studies, he works part-time at a nearby sand depot.
Using his earnings, he managed his educational expenses and gradually saved money to buy various tools and equipment. Eventually, he began working on his dream project the jeep. After months of effort and dedication, he completed this unique vehicle.
The battery-powered jeep includes modern features and an efficient braking system. It uses four batteries, which take around 8 to 10 hours to fully charge. Once fully charged, the vehicle can run continuously for 80 to 100 kilometers. The jeep measures 7 feet in length and about 3.5 feet in width and can carry five passengers in addition to the driver.
The total cost of building the vehicle was approximately Tk 10,000, though the roof is yet to be installed. It took him about three months to complete the project.
Speaking about his creation, Sohel said he designed the vehicle with environmental and fuel efficiency in mind. “This four-wheeled jeep reduces fuel costs and does not harm the environment,” he said.
His family is currently using the vehicle, and he hopes to produce such vehicles commercially if he receives government support.
Local residents say Sohel has always been intelligent and hardworking. Alongside his studies, he has consistently worked to support himself. Despite limited means, he gradually gathered the necessary tools and successfully built the jeep, which runs smoothly even with five passengers.
They believe Sohel’s achievement is a powerful inspiration for young people, proving that with determination and perseverance, extraordinary things can be accomplished even with limited resources.
