Our Crowdfunding Groups
Who Are We?
The Northwestern University Solar Car Team (NUsolar) is an undergraduate student organization that designs, builds, and races solar-powered vehicles. Our mission is to advance the education of Northwestern students and better prepare them for future careers by providing hands-on project management, design, and manufacturing experience while also providing an outlet for students to showcase their skills and commitment to potential employers. By demonstrating the feasibility of solar power, we also promote sustainability and raise awareness of alternative energy in the community.
Project Overview
Since being founded in 1997, we have built six cars and competed in over ten races. The team is currently building its seventh solar car, SC7, to compete in the upcoming American Solar Challenge and Formula Sun Grand Prix in July 2018. Universities from all around the world participate in these races, which provide students with opportunities not only to compete, but also to learn from one another how to design a better car. SC7’s design distills years of knowledge and experience into a car that represents the next step in developing market-ready solar vehicle applications.
Compared to our previous vehicles, SC7 stands out for its improved efficiency. We first substituted a 15 year old motor with two new motors with higher efficiency. We also built our solar arrays with one of the most efficient solar cells in the market. Finally, we designed SC7 aerodynamically, with expected coefficient of drag between 0.16 and 0.18: a value that is lower than Tesla Model S, a production car with a very low coefficient of drag (0.24).
Our Goal
Through your generous support, we plan to raise $5,000. This will cover the cost of purchasing two MPPTs that maximize the efficiency of power coming from solar arrays, circuit boards, and materials for the canopy. Having these components will greatly optimize SC7’s efficiency and performance, leading it to become a more competitive and sustainable vehicle.
Your donation will help us to make new breakthroughs in the development of alternative energy vehicles. We truly appreciate your support and generosity.
Let’s launch a new dawn of automotive innovation.
To learn more
Driven by Innovation, Fueled by the Sun, Funded by You. Thank You
Help us buy 21.2ft of high voltage wiring for our electrical system!
Help us buy one carbon fiber roll for our mechanical system!
Become a bronze sponsor of the solar car team. In recognition of this status, you’ll get your name on the website, a mention on social media, and a paper certificate commemorating your gift.
Help us purchase two MPPTs and become a silver sponsor of the solar car team. In recognition of this status, you’ll get your name on the website, our car, and everything at the silver sponsor level.
In addition to getting your name plastered on the side of our car and everything at the silver sponsor level, become a gold sponsor of the team and take your place among our biggest supporters.
