Following technology advancements, changing environmental needs, and most importantly to encourage teams to continue to push their boundaries for innovation, BWSC’s own technical faculty study and revise regulations for each edition of the event. Below is a brief introduction of regulations to enjoy the race!
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CHALLENGER CLASS
Speed Challenge :
A Race to Determine the World's Fastest Solar Car!While the allowable solar panel size has decreased this year (to half the size of the first event in 1987), there is more flexibility in vehicle size. Participating teams are likely to come up with innovative designs that have never been seen before. With the possibility for replacements in dominants of the podium, which solar car will end up being the first to cross the finish line!?
- Solar Panel Size
- 2.64m2～4m2
(Allowable size) differ depending on the material used - Vehicle Design
- - 4 wheels
- Maximum 5m in length, 2.2m in width, and
1.6min height
- Approximately the size of a large passenger vehicle - - Seating Capacity
- 1
(Teams are required to have at least 2 drivers to take turns operating the vehicle)
If the driver weighs less than 80kg, weights are added. - Power Source
- Only solar energy!
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CRUISER CLASS
Practicality Challenge :
Create Vehicles for the Future!Teams need to arrive between 11:00 and 14:00 on Day 6, as the order in which teams finish does not affect evaluation. So how will each team transport their passengers with efficiency? Look out for a battle of technology and wisdom!
- Solar Panel Size
- 3.3m2～5m2
(Allowable size differ depending on the material used) - Vehicle Design
- - 4 wheels
- Maximum 5m in length, 2.2m in width, and
1.6min height - Seating Capacity
- Minimum 2, Maximum 8
- Power Source
- Solar energy + external recharge
Evaluation Standards "Energy Efficiency: 80%,
Practicality: 20%"- Energy Efficiency
- Person-kilometre distance / nominal external energy use
- Practicality
- Score will be determined by a panel of judges based on six features
- Ease of access and egress
- Occupant space and comfort
- Ease of operation (driving and charging)
- Versatility
- Style
- Suitability for the declared purpose
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ADVENTURE CLASS
Non-competitive: Participate for Inspiration and AdventureThe Adventure Class is designed to allow participants to take part and enjoy the adventure. Expect a variety of unique vehicles in this class!
- Vehicle Design
- - More than 3 wheels
Cars built for previous editions of the event that are not eligible for this year’s Challenger or Cruiser classes, may participate
Other
Common Rules
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Timing
Teams can only operate their vehicles between 8:00 (8:30 on Day 1) and 17:00,
for a total of nine hours per day.
Demerit points may be imposed if teams operate their vehicles outside of the allotted time. -
Scrutineering
To participate in the race, vehicles must pass scrutineering (both dynamic and static) that takes place before the official start.
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Vehicle Inspection
Throughout the race, vehicles must stop for 30 minutes at designated control stops (a total of 9 stops were set up in the previous event) for Vehicle Inspection.
At any given time, if it is determined that a vehicle is incapable of operating at over 60 km/h, has issues that may prevent it from operating safely, or will not be able to finish the course within the allotted time, the vehicle will be towed to an appropriate location. The team can rejoin the race after it has been towed, but twill not be evaluated. -
Other Rules
Many other regulations are in place to ensure team safety;
- Requirement of escort vehicles in front of and behind the solar car
- Speed limits
- Ensuring front and side vision
- Equipment of lights and signals
- Maintenance of proper driving posture
- Mandatory seat-belt and helmet use
- Secure of potable water to prevent heatstroke