Solar vehicle unveiled by Stanford: named Sundae
The Stanford Solar Car Project, a student-run team at Stanford University, has embarked on a new venture with their latest solar-powered vehicle, named Sundae. Unlike their previous car, Arctan, which finished 6th overall in the 2015 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, Sundae is designed with a catamaran aerobody to reduce air resistance and maximize the solar array's size for optimal sunlight harvesting [2].
The team aims to build a safe battery for Sundae, similar to the ones used in Tesla and many electric cars today, with a battery life that can last around 150 miles, although the duration depends on the speed at which the car is traveling [3]. The team plans to test Sundae in California's Central Valley this summer before heading to Darwin, Australia, for the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge on October 8 [4].
In the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, the team faces the challenge of potential cloudy conditions during the race, which could result in less power from the solar array. However, the team has taken precautions, ensuring that Sundae's solar array is waterproofed to protect it from rain, which is unlikely during the race [5].
The team's ultimate goal is to rank among the top 3 in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge and drive Sundae at a constant speed of 55 mph during the race. Their number one goal, however, is to ensure that the car does not break down [6]. The cost of Sundae, including sponsorships and other expenses, is estimated to be around 2 million dollars [7].
The team has high hopes for Sundae, hoping that in the future, people will drive electric cars and get their electricity from solar farms, making events like the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge even more relevant and exciting [1].
[1] Stanford Solar Car Project official website [2] Stanford Solar Car Project, "Sundae" design specifications [3] Stanford Solar Car Project, "Sundae" battery specifications [4] Stanford Solar Car Project, testing schedule for Sundae [5] Stanford Solar Car Project, weather considerations for Sundae [6] Stanford Solar Car Project, goals for the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge [7] Stanford Solar Car Project, budget for Sundae
Technology and sports intersect as the Stanford Solar Car Project aims to reach top speeds with Sundae, their latest solar-powered vehicle, in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge. With a focus on energy efficiency, the team plans to integrate science from electric cars, such as Tesla, to develop a long-lasting battery for Sundae.
