MIT’s solar car is finally game for the World Solar Challenge. To cover the 2000 mile track in seven days, the car has been made rugged and efficient. Its aerodynamic design leads to an ultra-low drag coefficient of 0.11, a number lower than that of the Prius and even the Aptera 2e, and the solar cells spread to cover an area of 64.5 square feet, generating 1200 Watts to power the car’s only rear wheel.

All the carbon-fiber and Kevlar on the body ensures that the $243,000 vehicle’s weight remains below 500 pounds. As Autopia points out, while the UFO-shaped car looks unworthy of any practical use, experiences with its development can prove good for future vehicles. Much like GM’s involvement with the Sunraycer proved to be useful when developing the Chevrolet Volt.

Via: Autopia423983