CANE INSTITUTE TEAM TO COMPETE IN 2024 SOLAR CAR CHALLENGE AT TEXAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY
Tuesday, Jul 02, 2024
The Cane Institute Solar Owls Automotive Racing (SOAR) Team from Florida Atlantic University High School will travel to Fort Worth, Texas, for the Solar Car Challenge later this month.
The team of 26 teenagers will put their ALSET Solar CyberSedan to the test as a 4-seat solar-powered commuter vehicle against 32 teams from 12 states across the country. The Cane Institute is one of only two teams representing Florida at the high school or university level at this year's competition, and the only school from Florida competing in the 4-seater solar-powered commuter vehicle competition. Students have been preparing for the competition since the summer of 2023, when they participated in educational workshops hosted by the competition's organizers.
The 31st annual Solar Car Challenge will see teams troubleshoot mechanical issues, fare through weather conditions, and work as a cohesive unit to limit any time their vehicle is not accruing mileage towards the competition. At the end of four days of racing at the Texas Motor Speedway, the team completing the most miles will be announced the winner.
The program motivates students in science, technology, and alternative energy. Before racing begins on July 14, teams will undergo a rigorous evaluation of their vehicle and engineering at the Speedway.
"Programs at The Cane Institute exemplify how hands-on, project-based STEM initiatives can help students discover their talents, strengths, and interests," said Joel Herbst, Superintendent of Schools. "Engaging in these activities guides students toward STEM degrees and careers, ultimately finding their own STEM identity."
"STEM competitions like the Solar Car Challenge offer students a unique, hands-on opportunity to apply classroom lessons to real-world global issues," said Allan Phipps, Florida Atlantic Laboratory Schools STEM Coordinator. "Projects like building a solar car enhance engineering skills and foster essential life skills such as time management, teamwork, communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving."
For more information on the Solar Car Challenge, visit https://www.solarcarchallenge.org/challenge/media.shtml.
A media day will be held on Friday, July 12, at Texas Motor Speedway. Contact Sunwest Communications at HEC@sunwestpr.com for more information.