Illinois State University’s Solar Car Team, led by a diverse group of students, has launched a fundraising campaign to rebuild its award-winning Mercury 6 vehicle. It seeks a minimum of $5,000 by December 31 to advance sustainable engineering and compete in the American Solar Challenge this coming June.
With a steadfast focus on innovative and sustainable technology, these talented students dedicate themselves to creating a solar-powered vehicle that pushes the boundaries of efficiency and speed. The Solar Car Team is a student-led registered student organization sponsored by Dr. Dan Holland in the Department of Physics; however, student members come from a variety of fields of study on campus.
“The Solar Car Team is very grateful for the generous support of our donors. Donor support through the years has enabled the team to improve all aspects of the car to the point where we are very competitive. In the 2023 Formula Sun Grand Prix, we were able to earn a third-place podium finish. With your support, we hope to do even better in the 2024 Formula Sun and the American Solar Challenge,” said Holland, the Department of Physics chair.
This past summer, following a third-place win at the ASC Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix in Topeka, Kansas, against top schools in the field of tech and engineering, the Solar Car Team faces a new challenge. The team has committed to build a new model, the Mercury 7.
The estimated cost of rebuilding surpasses $60,000, prompting the team to initiate a fundraising campaign asking the Redbird community for support. The team has set a goal to raise at least $5,000 by December 31 to launch the rebuild process, and fundraising efforts will continue through 2024.
The Solar Car Team is inviting alumni and friends to be part of something greater, endorsing the hands-on and meaningful learning these students acquire in renewable energy, project management, engineering and design, data analysis, welding, programming, 3D modeling, and multidisciplinary teamwork.
Beyond covering expenses like new battery packs, solar cells, and tools, your donation will drive the Solar Car Team’s mission to design and construct a new, fully solar-powered vehicle. In essence, private financial support contributes not only to the future of sustainable mobility but also champions a generation of students paving the way toward a cleaner and more efficient tomorrow. Moreover, all donations are 100% tax-deductible through the ISU Foundation Solar Car Team Fund.
To be part of this transformative endeavor, visit the crowdfunding webpage for more information. Your participation contributes to the Department of Physics legacy and fosters a vibrant technology culture at Illinois State University.
For inquiries and alternative ways to contribute, contact the Office of Annual Giving at (309) 438-4483 or email AnnualGiving@IllinoisState.edu.
