The Formula Sun Grand Prix (FSGP) is a competition to design, build, and drive solar-powered vehicles in a 3-day road-course track event. Each day, teams are given an 8-hour driving period each day (24 hours total driving time during the event) to complete as many laps as possible. Teams can enter either Single-Occupant Vehicle (SOV) class or the Multi-Occupant Vehicle (MOV) class. SOV entries get credit for passengers being in the vehicle while completing laps. All vehicles must meet a detailed set of regulations and pass a series of inspections. Those teams that demonstrate their roadworthiness during the Formula Sun Grand Prix are then qualified to participate in the American Solar Challenge (road event).
Competition Dates: June 30-July 5, 2025
Location: NCM Motorsports Park (Bowling Green, KY)
Competition Process
Collegiate student teams design, build, and then race vehicles powered by the sun. Teams register for the event and complete a series of pre-event reports and other submissions. Upon arrival at the event, all teams and their solar vehicles go through a scrutineering process – a series of inspections of mechanical systems, electrical systems, dynamic testing, etc. Upon passing scrutineering, teams are allowed to compete in the Formula Sun Grand Prix, where the teams aim to complete as many laps as possible on solar power. To win, teams need to successfully build a solar powered vehicle that meets the regulations, is energy efficient, and is reliable. Top teams tend to build several months of testing into their project management schedule ahead of the competition, which allows them to further develop their energy management strategy and for their drivers and support team members to gain valuable experience. During the event, teams will make decisions based on weather and energy management strategies to complete as many laps as possible on the road course track.Judging Criteria
All teams that wish to enter a solar car in the Formula Sun Grand Prix (FSGP) must ensure that car complies with all event regulations. Before any solar car is allowed to race, it must first pass a series of rigorous technical inspections called Scrutineering. See the competition's website for full regulations.Participate
Website: http://americansolarchallenge.org/about/formula-sun-grand-prix/
Managing Organization: Innovators Educational Foundation
Eligibility:
The Event is open to institutions of higher education (university/college level). Teams from universities all around the world bring their cars to compete in these challenging events. The competition is open to both undergraduate and graduate students.
The Event is open to institutions of higher education (university/college level). Teams from universities all around the world bring their cars to compete in these challenging events. The competition is open to both undergraduate and graduate students.
Registration Dates
October 13, 2024
12:01am PDT
Registration Opens
May 30, 2025
12:01am PDT