Illini Solar Car

Illini Solar Car is a student-run nonprofit team at the University of Illinois, dedicated to designing, building, and racing solar electric vehicles. Our team has proudly represented the university in competitions across the US and Australia, consistently pushing the boundaries of solar vehicle technology. This summer, we debuted our third-generation vehicle, Calypso, at the 2024 American Solar Challenge, achieving an impressive 4th place finish and covering over 1,500 miles from Tennessee to Wyoming—driving the third-most miles of any team.

The heart of our solar-electric vehicle lies in its advanced electrical system. From the power system that drives the motors, the custom-built battery, and the solar array, to the intricate code that controls the blink_ers—every component is engineered for maximum efficiency. Our electrical team designs nearly every board from scratch, writing custom code to optimize performance specifically for solar racing. Together, these efforts create a fully functioning, street-legal vehicle capable of traveling across continents. By experimenting with cutting-edge materials and manufacturing methods, we develop high-performance solar arrays that maximize energy capture, turning our electric vehicle into a truly solar-powered car.

Power Distribution System (PDS)

The Power Distribution System (PDS) is the nerve center of our vehicle’s power management. It intelligently controls the flow of electricity, making decisions about connections to the high-voltage bus using CAN signals. The PDS manages critical connections between the battery, motors, and solar array through contactors and a charge switch board. When inactive, the PDS isolates these components to ensure safety; when active, it seamlessly integrates messages from these systems to determine how power is routed throughout the vehicle.

Lights Control

The Lights Control Board manages our vehicle’s lighting system, addressing challenges like electromagnetic interference (EMI) that affected previous designs. By centralizing the control board near the dashboard, we minimize the need for PWM wires running across the car, reducing EMI risks from sources like radio broadcasts or motor controllers. This innovative design ensures that our lighting system functions reliably, enhancing both safety and vehicle performance.

PCBWay’s support would be a game-changer for our team, enabling us to produce high-quality PCBs quickly, which is essential for rapid testing and iteration. This capability allows us to prototype efficiently, providing invaluable hands-on learning opportunities for our team members. By involving more students in the design and testing process, we help them build real-world skills in renewable energy and sustainable transportation.

As a student-run nonprofit organization, our mission is to advance solar vehicle technology while inspiring the next generation of engineers and innovators. A partnership with PCBWay would elevate our electrical system development, optimizing our designs for greater efficiency and reliability in competition. With your support, we can continue to push the limits of solar car racing, paving the way for a future where sustainable transportation is the norm.

We are excited about the possibility of collaborating with PCBWay and believe that together, we can drive toward a cleaner, more sustainable future!