Appalachian State University Team Races Solar Car Across The Country

A team of Appalachian State University students is currently racing across the country in the solar-powered car they built. Team Sunergy began the competition after a three-day qualifying round.

The ASU group placed third at the recent Formula Sun Grand Prix in Pennsylvania. And now, they're on a 1,975-mile trip across the country.

The American Solar Challenge will take the drivers through seven states and nine national forests, all while testing the endurance and sustainability of their vehicle. Project Manager and driver Dan Blakeley describes the car they've named Apperion. 

“It's a three-wheeled, fully solar powered vehicle. It has a 1,200 watt solar array. At 45mph it can sustain itself all day while using less power than you consume while utilizing a standard hair dryer.”

The Solar Challenge began on Saturday in Brecksville, Ohio and will finish in Hot Springs, South Dakota. ASU's is the only North Carolina team in the competition.

Follow the team's progress and get updates on their journey here.