Team Sunergy is comprised of students, faculty, and staff from various campus units, spread across Appalachian State University, working together for one common goal: to research and develop solar-powered race cars. Due to their unique location in the heartland of racing, Team Sunergy uses the platform of solar-powered racing to drive innovation in renewable energy technology for sustainable transportation.
Team Sunergy has seen continued growth and success since they first drove their solar car, Apperion, in the 2016 American Solar Challenge. In 2018, Team Sunergy designed and built their first solar car, ROSE (Racing on Solar Energy) from the ground up. As a cruiser class vehicle, ROSE was designed to incorporate the comfort and practicality of an everyday vehicle while still getting all of its power from the sun. Team Sunergy raced ROSE in the 2018 Formula Sun Grand Prix: a three day track race that took place in Hastings, Nebraska. ROSE managed to secure third place in the cruiser class, driving almost 400 miles on a closed track, and qualify for the American Solar Challenge (ASC). For the 2018 American Solar Challenge, Team Sunergy drove ROSE nearly 1,800 miles from Omaha, NE to Bend, OR along parts of the Oregon Trail. After eight days of hard racing on the open highway, Team Sunergy managed to tie for second place with the University of Minnesota.
With over 2,000 miles of competing under their belt, Team Sunergy made a huge impact at the 2020 American Solar Challenge. Team Sunergy plans to use the next year to modify ROSE to make it the most competitive solar car on the road. Modifications will include, redesigning all of the electrical systems, optimizing steering and suspension for weight and performance, and working on the interior to boost ROSE’s practicality. This unique project provides numerous opportunities for hands-on learning and professional development.
Every year, ROSE is modified and improved and regularly places in the national ASC. Most recently, the team scored first place in 2021 in the SOV class and second place in 2022.
To learn more, visit the team's website at https://sunergy.appstate.edu
To donate, please visit www.alumni.appstate.edu/solarvehicleteam
