Students from the PWr Solar Boat Team science club operating at the Wrocław University of Science and Technology are preparing their solar boat for the competition in the Netherlands. The constructors added a new paint coating, improved the weight distribution in the vehicle and refined the control system.
A one-person racing boat is almost 6 meters long and 1.6 wide. It is equipped with nine photovoltaic panels of 6 sq m. and a package of lithium- phosphat-iron (LiFePO4) batteries that may power a 4.5kW drive motor that is equivalent to two electric kettles.
The vehicle will be able to reach a speed of 30 km / h. Ultimately, so-called hydrofoils, i.e. special airfoils mounted under the fuselage, will guarantee the effect of flight and reduction of hydrodynamic resistance. In autumn, the boat will participate in the Netherlands in the Solar Sport One competition. The competition’s jury assesses the speed, maneuverability and energy efficiency of the boat.
