Eco Factor: Sustainable car powered by more than 500 solar cells.
Iowa State University students have once again proved their potential by developing yet another solar-powered vehicle that will hit the road soon. Dubbed the “Anthelion,” this green car is the university’s tenth solar-powered vehicle to run the 1,100-mile race for the American Solar Challenge. The PrISUm team is busy making final changes to the car that features more than 500 solar cells.
A result of good two years of hard work, computer-aided design and some novel engineering techniques, the three-wheel Anthelion incorporates features like magnesium alloy wheel mounts and batteries fitted onto the carbon fiber shell. Both of these features along with one less wheel significantly lighten the load, hence enhancing its performance.
The US$250,000 green car had recently received a custom paint job and special attention has been given to fixing issues associated battery protection system and electronics. Presently the Anthelion is undergoing road testing to prepare it for qualifying rounds at the Motorsport Ranch in Cresson, Texas. Thereafter, the vehicle will compete with 17 teams to win the American Solar Challenge being held from June 20 to June 26.
Via: Gizmag
