Clark Taylor, Illini Solar Car team member, continues, “This year, Illini Solar Car finished work on their third-generation car, Calypso, the team’s most efficient car to date. The car’s efficiency is a result of modifications like the switch to only three wheels, the first of the team’s cars to include this feature, as well as using a new battery chemistry, 25.3% efficient solar cells, high-end wheel bearings with minimal rolling resistance, and a lightweight carbon-fiber composite aero-shell for optimal aerodynamic efficiency.” Business Lead Ambreen Sidhu remarks, “The existence of Calypso is due to the invaluable support extended by the university and our esteemed sponsors. Through financial contributions, in-kind support, and invaluable mentorship, our sponsors have played a pivotal role in bringing Calypso to fruition. Their support has been vital in our journey towards innovation and excellence.”
Clark adds,“With these improvements, the team has high expectations for the upcoming American Solar Challenge, a week-long, 2,000-mile cross-country endurance rally across North America, where ISC will compete with top engineering schools across the country. This year, the ASC will start in Nashville, Tennessee, and end in Twin Falls, Idaho, with the race spanning across Southern, Midwest, and Great Plains states via the National Historic Trail.
“Recently, Illini Solar Car attended the Chicago Auto Show as a concept vehicle. Here they had the opportunity to talk with attendees about the team, along with being interviewed by news outlets such as CBS News. Through this event, we’ve reconnected and gained the recognition of many University of Illinois alumni.

“Illini Solar Car is advised and supported by Professor Banerjee and the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department. The project is sponsored by various companies, alumni, and on-campus entities such as the Office of the Provost, the Materials Science & Engineering Department, the Hazardous Materials Training Program, and the Siebel Center for Design.”

Figure 1: “Calypso,” a concept vehicle at the Chicago Auto Show.

Figure 2: “Calypso,” An interview at the Chicago Auto Show.

Figure 3: Illinois Solar Car team at the Chicago Auto Show.