Residents and volunteers of Camp Cadiz had quite the surprise during lunch Wednesday afternoon at Cadiz Methodist Church, when a small solar-powered car rolled in as part of the working team convoys eager for a meal.
According to Andrea Hampton, one of several Camp Cadiz organizers, the strange, futuristic vehicle was, and continues to be, powered by University of Michigan engineering students — who are currently preparing for the Electrek American Solar Challenge taking place from July 20-27.
Hampton noted the car, and its crew, were reviewing weather conditions and the route, and needed to make a stop to cover a battery, make a few repairs and set some adjustments before traveling on to Paducah.
Beginning in Nashville, the competition will take drivers through Hopkinsville, Cadiz, Aurora, Draffenville and further along U.S. 68/80.
But this is just one small snapshot of the challenge. Collegiate teams from around the world will traverse a 1,500-mile path that carves its way into Wyoming — where the finish line awaits.
From July 13-15, a “Scrutineering at NCM Motorsports Park” in Bowling Green showcases where the teams will undergo rigorous inspections — in order to confirm all competing vehicles meet safety and design standards.
From July 16-18, the same park will host a three-day track event known as the “Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix,” where teams will try to complete as many laps as possible within 24 hours of driving time. Each day is eight hours of racing, testing maximum efficiency and speed.
On July 19, just one day before the perilous pilgrimage, “Bridgestone Display Day” and practicality judging will be held at Nashville’s Adventure Science Center. It’s open to the public, and allows spectators a close-up view of the innovative cars and their personal teams.
The race itself weaves not only through Tennessee, Kentucky and Wyoming, but also Illinois, Missouri, Kansas and Nebraska — especially along portions of seven National Historic Trails: Trail of Tears, Lewis & Clark, Santa Fe, Pony Express, Mormon Pioneer, California, and Oregon.
Drivers will also experience the famed Route 66.
