Design of the Body and Structure for a Practical and Highly Efficient Solar-Electric Sports Car

The design of the exterior body shape and structure of a solar-electric sports car which competed in the 2019 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (BWSC) Cruiser Class is explored. A low-drag and low-lift aerodynamic shape with a coefficient of lift near zero and drag area of 0.16 m2 is developed as a primary focus around the constraints of a solar array, occupant space, and aesthetics. The maximally sized 5 m2 rearward tilted solar array capable of generating an expected event average power of 885 W influences the size and shape of the roof. The space for which two occupants are seated in the vehicle is developed to achieve a reclined occupant position that minimizes the vehicle frontal area. A carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) and foam composite sandwich monocoque make up the structure of the vehicle at a mass of 59.53 kg. Factors of practicality and their compromises are also explored.

Language

  • English

Media Info

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01847730
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: SAE International
  • Report/Paper Numbers: 2022-01-5038
  • Files: TRIS, SAE
  • Created Date: May 31 2022 3:53PM