After the first solar car was invention in 1955 by William Cobb, there have been numerous models presented after that. Improving with time, recently University of Michigan students won the solar car race.
With 3 champions, the 8-day Electrek American Solar Challenge 2024 came to an end. Among the 3 new champion student-run solar car teams, the University of Michigan team came first. The solar car Astrum traveling at a speed of 37.51 mph (60.3 kmph) won the race by covering 2095.5 miles (3372 km).
An Unexpected Turn
When the car rolled over and its engine was damaged, Astrum almost got kicked out of the competition. This happened on the 1st day of the qualifying round and yet they managed to secure the top spot in the end.
Electrek American Solar Challenge 2024
The event attracted more than 30 student-run teams from the U.S. and Canada. The competition began on 20 July 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee, and ended in Casper, Wyoming on 27 July 2024.
The primary route for the competition was 1562.2 miles long, but for teams to earn additional points, they can do optional 7 loops. As per the condition, the vehicles must have an average speed of about 35 mph to participate in the event.
Winners of the Competition
1st – Astrum solar car, a single-occupant vehicle from the University of Michigan (2095.5 miles)
2nd – Canada’s École de technologie supérieure (2004.5 miles)
3rd – Illinois State University solar car team (1504.3 miles)
Read more about Solar Car Advantages.
About Astrum
It is a 3-wheel car in a carbon fiber monohull design. It consumes half of the power consumed by a toaster. Astrum does have a battery for days when solar power does not provide sufficient energy. It is the lightest car made by the U-M and comes with a new nose shape for optimal aerodynamics.
Specifications
- Battery Pack – 20 kg Lithium-ion
- Chassis – Carbon Fiber Monocoque
- Dimensions – 5 m by 1.2 m by 1.0 m
- Motor – 2 kW Mitsuba
- Solar Array – 4m2 – Silicon
- Wheels – Three 16” Wheels
After University of Michigan students won the solar car race, for the next year, the team is planning to take Astrum to the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge in Australia. The solar car already finished in 4th place last year, and aims for the top spot the next time.
Source: Astrum
