Students from the PWr Solar Boat Team research club at the Wrocław University of Science and Technology have developed a solar boat. This almost 6 m long and 1.6 m wide one-person racing boat underwent the first tests on the Odra River. The constructors checked its maneuverability and maximum speed.
The boat is equipped with nine photovoltaic panels with a total area of 6 sq m. and a package of lithium-phosphat-iron batteries that power a 4.5kW drive motor – equivalent to two electric kettles. It will be able to reach speeds of 30 km / h. Ultimately, the so-called hydro-wings, i.e. special airfoils mounted under the fuselage will guarantee the effect of flight and reduction of hydrodynamic drag.
The student club of PWr Solar Boat Team is preparing the boat thanks to funds obtained from the University and the Ministry of Education and Science, the Student Activity Fund, the Marshal’s Office of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship and the Wrocław municipality.
