The University of Minnesota Solar Vehicle Project has finished the 2017 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge and is now racing in the 2018 American Solar Challenge. Eos II, the most recent solar car, was one of only five cruiser cars to completely finish the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge. Eos I placed fourth in the 2016 Formula Sun Grand Prix and tenth in the 2016 American Solar Challenge, the only cruiser competitor to qualify for either race.
Join the Solar Vehicle Project and earn the opportunity to race across the American and Australian continents while gaining critical, applicable career skills. With commitment, you will even work with industry advisers who can help you utilize these skills upon graduation!
Engineering Division
The Engineering Division creates everything from the circuit boards to the motor to the shell. Here, the members of the Solar Vehicle Project apply the lessons learned in the classroom to a physical project, ultimately developing the car. The Engineering Division works with faculty at the University of Minnesota as well as industry advisors from our sponsors to learn from their experience and incorporate their wisdom in the designs.
Controls
Controls Group is responsible for creating and integrating systems in the interior of the car. These systems provide the practicality expected in a consumer car; careful consideration is given to everything we develop and include. Controls Group predominantly consists of Electrical Engineers, Computer Engineers, and Computer Science majors. Controls is a good fit for students that want to be challenged by electrical systems and focus on the user experience of our car.
Strategy
Strategy Group is responsible for optimizing the performance of the team during the American Solar Challenge and the World Solar Challenge races. Strategy's main goal is to determine how fast the solar car should travel during the race in order to balance power usage and energy efficiency while still finishing as quickly as possible. The team works closely with all Engineering Groups to determine their best strategy, making this a great place for students interested in problem solving, data analysis, or other engineering applications.
Aerodynamics & Structures
Aerodynamics & Structures Group encompasses all of the structural aspects, and the overall look of the car. Aerodynamics & Structures Group consists mainly of Aerospace, and Mechanical Engineers, along with a wide range of design majors to design and build everything integrated into the body of the car. With the Aerodynamics & Structures Group, students gain experience working with CAD and simulation software, for the best build quality possible in our custom car. Aerodynamics & Structures Group is looking for students interested in these aspects of the Solar Vehicle Project.
Vehicle Dynamics
Vehicle Dynamics Group focuses on the moving components of the solar car. This group is responsible for designing and building everything from the steering to the wheels; Vehicle Dynamics ensures that our car performs optimally. These students are typically studying Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, but Vehicle Dynamics wants students of all talents to help make our car run.