UBC Solar – Race for the Sun
UBC Solar is preparing to build and race a brand-new solar-powered vehicle, and we need your help to bring this ambitious project to life. Designed, engineered and constructed entirely by students, this next-generation car will represent UBC, British Columbia and Canada at the Formula Sun Grand Prix in 2027.
Your support will help fund the materials, components and specialized systems needed to build one of the most complex and innovative student engineering projects at UBC.
Project Description
UBC Solar is a passionate, student-driven team of nearly 80 members dedicated to designing, building and racing cutting-edge solar-powered vehicles. Through hands-on learning and interdisciplinary collaboration, we are training the next generation of engineers, innovators and sustainability leaders.
Our current goal is to construct an entirely new solar race car from the ground up, a project valued at approximately $150,000. This vehicle will feature our largest composite aeroshell ever produced by a UBC student organization, along with advanced systems designed to maximize efficiency, safety and performance on the track.
Every element of the car, from suspension to battery systems, is designed and built by students working day and night to turn possibility into reality. With your help, this vehicle will compete on the international stage at the Formula Sun Grand Prix in 2027, showcasing Canadian innovation in clean transportation.
Challenges and Impact of Your Support
Building a solar race car is both technically demanding and financially intensive. While our team contributes thousands of volunteer hours to solve engineering challenges, we rely on community support to secure the specialized materials and components required to compete.
Your donation directly powers progress. Here is how your gift makes a difference:
- $5 supports our solar panel array
- $10 contributes to a brake pedal component
- $50 funds a battery cooling fan
- $100 helps build the vehicle windshield
- $500 supports critical battery circuit boards
Every contribution moves us closer to the starting line and helps UBC students push the boundaries of renewable energy innovation. Together, we can build a vehicle that demonstrates what clean technology and student determination can achieve on a global stage.
About UBC Solar
UBC Solar is an interdisciplinary, student-led design team uniting students from multiple faculties and degree levels, from first year through graduate studies. Across electrical, mechanical and business divisions, our members collaborate to design, manufacture and race high-performance solar vehicles.
Our team’s passion drives everything we do, whether engineering the perfect driver seat for long summer races or documenting thousands of build-stage moments to share our journey. This commitment has allowed UBC Solar to grow into one of the most ambitious and technically advanced student automotive projects at the university.
By supporting UBC Solar, you are investing in experiential education, sustainable transportation and the future leaders who will shape clean energy innovation in Canada and beyond.