Key Facts
• Kofu Technical High School team won Japan’s first solar car race title for Yamanashi.
• The race was held in Akita Prefecture, featuring engineers nationwide.
• The team competed in the endurance category, running 75 kilometers in 5 hours.
• Solar panels on the car generated minimal power, comparable to a TV’s energy use.
• The cockpit was designed with minimal space to maximize efficiency.
• Weather conditions were challenging, with increasing cloud cover during the race.
• Students overruled their teacher’s strategy, leading to their victory.
• The team aims to improve the car to exceed 100 kilometers in future races.
• The program was established in 2020 at Kofu Technical High School.
• Teacher Hisanori Muramatsu emphasized the unique learning experience for students.
Summary
The Kofu Technical High School team achieved a historic victory in the national solar car race, marking the first win for Yamanashi Prefecture. Competing in Akita Prefecture, the team participated in the endurance category, covering 75 kilometers in 5 hours using only solar-generated power. Despite challenging weather and strategic disagreements with their teacher, the students’ decisions led to their success. The solar car, equipped with minimal power-generating panels and a compact cockpit, showcased innovative engineering. Established in 2020, the program aims to foster creativity and technical skills. Looking ahead, the team plans to enhance their car’s performance to surpass 100 kilometers in future competitions. Teacher Hisanori Muramatsu highlighted the invaluable experience gained by students, encouraging them to apply their learnings to future research and innovation.
