What the hell is solar racing? (I did too ask this at the start). Imagine fast-paced racing without the loud motors and stench of petrol. The goal of solar racing is to create incredibly light, aerodynamic vehicles that run entirely on solar energy. The DCU squad will participate in competitions such as the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, where teams from all over the world race across the Australian Outback, from Darwin to Adelaide which is some of the world’s most difficult terrain. It’s a test of engineering intelligence, cooperation, and environmental responsibility in addition to being a race with the ambition to be the fastest (vroom).
The DCU Dream Team is made up of a variety of science, engineering, communications, and business students who volunteer their time and skills to make this passion project a reality. They add the bizarre to state-of-the-art technology. Under the motto “Driving Forward” and “Powered by the Sun”, these students demonstrate that we can compete and outperform other countries in the sustainability space while capturing the inventive spirit of Ireland. They’re not just building a car, they are building an Irish legacy, hoping that other Irish universities will soon follow.
Their mission? Bottom line: GET THE CAR ON THE ROAD, and Showcase Ireland’s potential in green technology by creating a solar car from the ground up that can withstand the harsh conditions of international solar races. The car they are building isn’t just a one-off type of car; the car currently being built will be used for at least four years, racing between Australia and Belgium every other year.
The vehicle they have been producing is nothing short of truly remarkable. The sleek, futuristic, and solar-paneled DCU car resembles something from a science-fiction film blasting off into space. From the Catamaran style, its feather-light carbon fibre body to its solar panels that capture every last bit of sunlight – yes, even in Irish weather – all engineered parts are made to be as efficient as possible.
With just the energy of two kettles, the car can achieve remarkable speeds, with the calculated top speed of 130 km/h. But endurance and dependability are just as important as speed. The vehicle’s battery system stores energy for those overcast days, making it ideal for a team test in Dublin’s infamously erratic weather.
Additionally, the squad collaborates closely with local companies and sponsors, which benefits the community as a whole. They are now a brilliant illustration of how Irish creativity can spur change on a worldwide scale.
It’s not always sunshine and smooth roads. It’s no easy task to design a solar-powered vehicle, particularly when money and resources are scarce. However, the team’s drive and determination is unmatched. They’ve handled everything from budgetary restrictions to technical difficulties with a positive outlook and a good helping of Irish humour. Not to mention the (lack of) sun in Dublin, which is zero help.
Also next time you’re cursing the weather, spare a thought for this bright bunch of students who’ve turned cloudy days into an opportunity to innovate.
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