The 6th large solar-powered car race took place at the Real de Massamá field on June 20th.
The VS-Solar Challenge project aims to raise awareness among participants to the richness of solar energy, offering them the possibility of getting to know instruments and techniques that allow them to act critically and proactively in the field of this theme, in order to promote more sustainable behaviors and habits.
In all, according to the organization, 19 cars from various parts of the country participated in this event, which is unique in Portugal and with this unique format in Europe.
PUB
This race aims to give the greatest number of laps on the track during the 90 minutes, preceded by a morning qualification to establish a place in the match.
In this race there were five disciplines: the free category, without restrictions, and formula A, with four categories, depending on of the vehicle’s operating voltage, 60, 48, 36 and 24 volts.
Teams from various associations, schools, institutes and universities participated:
– Sintra Solar Students
– Renewable Energies Club Prof. Fernando Ferreira (Oliveira do Bairro)
– D. João II School (São Marcos)
– Ferreira Dias School (Cacém)
– Professional School of Felgueiras
– Professional School of Penafirme (Torres Vedras)
– Professional School of Trancoso
– Leal da Câmara Secondary School (Rio de Mouro)
– Luis Freitas Branco Secondary School (Paço de Arcos)
– Matias Aires Secondary School (Agualva-Cacém)
– Mem Martins Secondary School
– Miguel Torga Secondary School (Massamá)
– Stª Maria Secondary School (Portela de Sintra)
– ETAP – Pombal’s Artistic and Professional Technological School
– Higher Institute of Engineering of the University of Algarve
The winning team was the representative of Sintra Solar Students in car number 02, responsible l Daniel Carvalho and pilot João Ribeiro, who achieved 102 laps in 1h30’07,067.
Acknowledgements: Paulo Carvalho (VS Solar Challenge), Communication Office of the University of Algarve and Francisco Santos (photos provided)
