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Solar cars were first built by universities and manufacturers.
During the 1990s, regulations requiring an approach to "zero emissions" from vehicles increased interest in new battery technology. Battery systems that offer higher energy density became the subject of joint research by federal and auto industry scientists.
Solar cars were first built by universities and manufacturers. The sun energy collector areas proved to be too large for consumer cars, however that is changing. Development continues on solar cell design and car power supply requirements such as heater or air-conditioning fans.
Modern solar powered racing car
Solar Car Races
Hans Tholstrup and Larry Perkins were the first solar car racers who completed a Solar Trek from Perth to Sydney, Australia in 1983.
In the 1987 race, the GM Sunraycer completed the 3010 km trip with an average speed of 67 kmh, setting the scene for an extensive research and development program among the teams.
LINKS TO SOLAR CAR EVENTS
American World Solar Challenge Australian World Solar Challenge Canadian Solar Discovery Challenge Dream Cup Solar Car Race Suzuka 2003 - Japan North American Solar Challenge
SOME USEFUL SITES
Photovoltaics Special Research Centre International Solar Energy Society Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Clean Cars and Sustainable Energy Vehicles Solar Century - Photovoltaic Installations in the UK Phebus - Photovoltaic Installations in France South Bank University Research Centres Don's Autopages http://www.donsautopages.co.nz/ A comprehensive record breaking directory.
Apart from winning events, the outright speed of the competing vehicles is rising. Aurora set a record on 16 march 2002, achieving 53.56 mph or 86.20 kph. Then Delft University attained a speed of more than 100 kph with 'Nuna' and cut their overall time with Nuna II in October 2003.
However, according to the Guinness Book of Records the fastest solar powered vehicle is GM's 'Sunraycer' with a speed of 78.39 km/hr (48.71 mph) set on June 24 1988. Who is right and which record is official?
A taste for adventure
Solar Cola - a healthier alternative.
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EDUCATION | SOLAR CAR RACING TEAMS | SOLAR CAR RACING EVENTS | FILMS | MUSIC |
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