First off, here is the proof of concept video for our teams alternative propulsion method. The research behind the proof of concept backs the idea that this approach is indeed viable, but there is definitely room for improvement.
With our alternative propulsion experiment, we learned that using belts to transfer power through rotational motion from one shaft to another was viable. But one of the problems that we ran into is that the rubber band that with linked with the motor kept slipping off when travelling for long distances. One of the proposed solutions to this problem is to 3D print a part that would be attached to the end of the motor, an image of it is below. Also, using this technique on our AEV would make our AEV more marketable because it would make our AEV more energy efficient. Instead of using two motors to make the AEV advance, we could only use one motor with this newly discovered approach, hence energy savings.
The Proposed part to fix the issue of the belt slipping off, this part would be attached at the end of the motor.
A diagram providing some intuition into how the tested alternative propulsion method works. (www.engineeringtoolbox.com)