[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/phoenix1dn1.jpg” caption=”The Phoenix I, predecessor to this year’s McMaster Solar Car, Phoenix II. “]Prepared to brave the elements, their competitors and maybe even the odd kangaroo, a group of McMaster students will race their car from Australia's northern coast to its southern peninsula this October- but they won't use a drop of gasoline.

The McMaster Solar Car Project (MSCP) is traveling halfway around the globe to race in the seven day, rally- style World Solar Challenge, which brings together university students and researchers in the ultimate test of sustainable energy.

Over the summer, this interdisciplinary group of students, from the graduate and undergraduate levels, has been hard at work completing their fourth generation solar vehicle, Phoenix II. Designed to be electrically and mechanically superior to its predecessors, the car promises to be their best yet.

Major upgrades include a new chassis made entirely of lightweight Kevlar composites and an innovative material selection that puts the MSCP at the leading edge of engineering design. The Phoenix II will also make use of a reconditioned electric motor, more efficient battery pack and high efficiency power trackers to more effectively capture, store and use the sun's electricity.

Although a large focus of the MSCP is to build and race solar vehicles in international competitions, they also participate in many community events to educate the public and promote sustainable, green energy sources. The MSCP brings together students from all faculties to engage in problem-based, hands-on learning and promote student leadership.

The MSCP team will roll-out the Phoenix II on Friday, July 31. The McMaster community is invited for a small lunch, words by faculty and the team and a chance to see the car before it is shipped to Australia.

Anyone interested in getting involved with the MSCP can contact them at solarcar@mcmaster.ca or visit them on the web at www.solarcar.mcmaster.ca.