[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/solar_car_logo.jpg” caption=”McMaster Solar Car Project logo”]A new design and a new name are just two of the highlights to be announced when the McMaster Solar Car Project unveils its much anticipated, third-generation, solar-powered vehicle on Friday, June 3, 2005.

“After eight months of hard work on this car we are really excited about unveiling it,” said Karleen Dudeck, business manager of the McMaster Solar Car Project. “It will represent the sum of a lot of blood, sweat and tears.”

The newly engineered vehicle, called Phoenix, combines several new features, she says, including three wheels, a new solar array, an aluminum frame and advanced materials.

Phoenix will be entered into the North American Solar Challenge, the first solar car competition to cross from the United States into Canada. The 4,000-km race begins in Austin, Texas on July 17 and ends in Calgary, Alberta on July 27.

The unveiling will take place at 1 p.m. outside the McMaster University Student Centre. Refreshments will be served.