Watch CBS News

VIDEO: U-M Unveils New Solar Race Car

DEARBORN (WWJ) - Veterans from 25 years worth of solar car programs gathered at the Henry Ford Museum to see the unveiling of the University of Michigan's latest solar-powered vehicle, The Aurum.

"I think it's a very competitive vehicle," said Freshman Clayton Daley, a member of the 75 person team. "It's been performing how we expected. Hopefully it keeps doing what we expect it to."

The vehicle will be raced at an October event in Australia.

The University of Michigan has a history of building successful solar-powered vehicles. It's original 1990 model is on display at the Henry Ford Museum.

The driver of that vehicle, Paula Finnegan-Jones was on hand for today's ceremony.

"Looking back 25 years it seems like we really started something," she said.

Finnegan-Jones, who's an electrical engineer, says she didn't fully comprehend the ground they were breaking at the time. But, there's a lot she was able to take away from the experience.

"The spirit of optimism," she said. "The spirit of doing things that weren't done before. Kind of a 'you can do anything if you put your mind to it' kind of attitude."

Many of those involved in the Solar Car program say--for engineering students--it's like being on a sports team.

Undergraduate Ian Larsen has stuck around six years, mostly to be a part of this program.

"I keep delaying graduation so I can keep racing solar cars. Everyone ends up working in a job at some point. Not too many people can say they've raced solar cars multiple times through Australia."

Connect with Jeff Gilbert
Email: jdgilbert@cbs.com
Facebook: facebook.com/carchronicles
Twitter: @jefferygilbert

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.