Is there anywhere better to create a solar-powered car than on the sunny campus of Florida Polytechnic University? The school’s Phoenix Racing team has been doing just that while gearing up for its second appearance at the Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix in Bowling Green, KY.
Thanks to a crew of whip-smart students, the team completed 93 laps and came in seventh place last year at its very first race. This year, Phoenix Racing expects a spot in the top five with Spark MK2 Powered by TECO, its lighter + more aerodynamic car that’s completely powered by solar panels on its body.
It’s not just about speed at the Grand Prix — in fact, Spark MK2 only has a top speed of around 50 mph. Instead, it’s all about how many laps your vehicle can last over three days of racing. Teams work to get their cars as efficient as possible to keep them on the track longer.
Before taking to the track, teams undergo three days of scrutineering. Technical staff will inspect the car’s safety and configurations to ensure everything is within regulation from Monday, June 30 to Wednesday, July 2. Then the Formula Sun Grand Prix begins, and 30+ teams will race around the track Thursday, July 3-Saturday, July 5.
What does the future hold for a student on the Phoenix Racing team? According to team advisor and professor of mechanical engineering Dr. Matt Bohm, their experiences in the garage could open doors to their careers. “Employers want to see that they’ve worked on a multidisciplinary team,” Bohm said. “It’s really just extra learning to supplement what they’re getting in the classroom.”
Keep up with Phoenix Racing this week by watching Electrek’s live streams of each race day and following along with the team’s Instagram.
