ISU Solar Car Begins Statewide Tour

One hundred twenty Iowa State University students are putting the finishing touches on the world’s first Solar Utility Vehicle. Named “Penumbra,” this solar-assisted electric vehicle has been made to change the paradigm of transportation. During the month of June, members from PrISUm (the ISU student organization that manufactured the car) are traveling to all 99 counties in the state of Iowa to showcase the vehicle.  #SunRun99 will be stopping at Plastics Unlimited at 303 1^st St. NW Preston, IA 52069 on June 20^th at 4:00 P.M.

“During this time, everyone is welcome to check out this vehicle and even go for a quick spin!” said Smeet Mistry, Team PrISUm’s tour contact.

Like most vehicles found in dealerships across the state, Penumbra contains four seats and features Bluetooth audio and wireless charging for cell phones, Mistry explained. Where the differences begin is how Penumbra is powered. Instead of having a gas or diesel tank, Penumbra receives its energy from the sun. As the vehicle drives across the state, the sun recharges the onboard batteries. Fully charged, Penumbra has a “best in class” 200-mile range. On a sunny day, a constant speed of 40 mph can be achieved without any energy from the batteries. Once Penumbra completes #SunRun99, the vehicle will be flown to Australia to compete in the 2017 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge.

“Interested in learning more about the vehicle, team, or renewable energy? Be sure to stop by Plastics Unlimited (303 1^st St. NW Preston, IA 52069) on June 20^th at 4:00 P.M. ”  -Dakota Kieffer, Director of Sales and Marketing.

“Plastics Unlimited is pleased to partner with the #SunRun99 tour through our state!”  -Dakota Kieffer

“Plastics Unlimited believes in PrISUm Solar Car’s mission to change the future of transportation while spreading excitement about STEM education throughout the state of Iowa. SunRun is an event for all Iowans, and Plastics Unlimited is excited to be a part of this Summer’s tour!”  – Dakota Kieffer