The American Solar Challenge is a competition to design, build and race solar-powered cars across the country. It kicks off with the Formula Sun Grand Prix, a track style race that provides teams the opportunity to test and compete off the open road.
The July 2014 American Solar Challenge will be an 8-day, 1700+ mile road course traveling through seven states, from Austin, TX to Minneapolis, MN. But first, the Formula Sun Grand Prix will be held at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin this weekend!
FSGP 2014 Official Public Day
The racing hours are 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. If you come as early as 8:00 a.m., you can see the teams in their charging configuration. During charging, the body of the car with the solar array is pointed towards the sun revealing the chassis underneath. This can also be a great time to meet and greet with the teams as they prepare for the final day of the qualifying race. Planned activities include a model solar car workshop for kids, a demonstration by the Solar Rollers, and live broadcasting by KDRP – Sun Radio.
The 2014 Formula Sun Grand Prix solar car qualifying race at Circuit of the Americas is free and open to the public on Saturday, July 19, 2014. Parking is free and concessions will be available for purchase. All activities will be set up in the paddock area, with the ability to see the race from the stands and participate in the additional educational activities set up in and around the Event Center. You will also be able to walk on the paddock side of the garages and chat with the teams.
The racing hours are 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. If you come as early as 8:00 a.m., you can see the teams in their charging configuration. During charging, the body of the car with the solar array is pointed towards the sun revealing the chassis underneath. This can also be a great time to meet and greet with the teams as they prepare for the final day of the qualifying race. Planned activities include a model solar car workshop for kids, a demonstration by the Solar Rollers, and live broadcasting by KDRP – Sun Radio.
Circuit of The Americas
9201 Circuit of The Americas Blvd.
9201 Circuit of The Americas Blvd.
Austin, Texas 78617
Rest Day (Public Viewing)
Rest Day on Sunday, July 20, 2014 serves as a day to get ready for the start of the American Solar Challenge, following the wrap up of Formula Sun Grand Prix. Activities usually include moving to the American Solar Challenge start line area, recharging batteries, prepping support vehicles, and assigning team observers.
This is also a day for the public to come out from noon to 4:00 p.m. to see all the teams and cars up close before they embark on the cross country American Solar Challenge.
The cars will be located at UT Austin parking lot on Sunday (map).
For more information on all of this weekend’s free events, visit the American Solar Challenge website.
