SIUE Solar Racing Team Competes at Electrek Sun Grand Prix

Bowling Green, Kentucky – SIUE Solar Racing Team Competes at Electrek Sun Grand Prix

The SIUE Solar Racing Team is currently showcasing their engineering skills and dedication to sustainability at the Electrek Sun Grand Prix, being held from June 30 to July 5 at the National Corvette Museum Motorsports Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This year’s race features over 30 teams competing to complete the most laps using solar-powered batteries, highlighting a unique aspect of renewable energy in motorsport.

Team president Jakob Schoeberle indicated that the team has put immense effort into preparing their new solar car for this challenging competition. Notably, the team faced unexpected challenges when a breakdown occurred in their supplier’s machine, necessitating a swift redesign and construction of a new shell for their solar car. This adaptability is a testament to the team’s commitment to engineering and problem-solving.

This year’s competition continues to differentiate itself from traditional motorsport by measuring performance based on the number of laps completed on solar power rather than speed alone. The SIUE team’s participation marks a significant part of the university’s engagement in solar racing and innovation.

Since its inception, SIUE has been committed to advancing solar racing technology. The team’s first solar car debuted in 2019, marking the beginning of a continuous journey in developing solar technology and engineering excellence within the academic framework of the university. The team’s progress and dedication have not only advanced their own skills but also served as an inspiration to fellow students and educational institutions.

Chris Gordon, the associate dean of SIUE’s School of Engineering, expressed pride in the team’s achievements and their representation of hands-on learning principles. The team’s integration of theoretical knowledge into practical experiences exemplifies the educational goals of the School of Engineering.

In support of educational initiatives, the SIUE Solar Car team previously donated their 2015 solar car to Berea College in Kentucky. This donation is anticipated to provide the college’s engineering students with a vital training resource as they embark on forming their own solar car team. Such actions underscore the collaborative spirit and knowledge-sharing ethos among educational institutions involved in solar technology and engineering.

As the Electrek Sun Grand Prix unfolds, results will be updated live on the official event website, allowing interested parties to follow the race and the team’s progress throughout the competition. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, the SIUE Solar Racing Team continues to represent the university’s commitment to advancing renewable energy through engineering.

Overall, the participation of the SIUE Solar Racing Team in this prestigious event reinforces the increasing relevance of solar technology in automotive engineering and the broader push towards sustainable practices in all sectors of society.