The team hoped to impress upon the Canadian crowds how inexpensive Radiance is to operate. The Radiance project began three years ago. The first year was devoted to design, the second to building the car. Over the past 12 months, the students and their car competed in several races and are ranked the second best team of its kind in the world. The car, like other solar-powered vehicles, has an aerodynamic shape and a bank of solar cells that power the electric motor.
Excess energy is stored in a battery for use when the sun is dim.
The unusual profile of Radiance caught the attention of the authorities as the team made its way across the country. What the policemen wanted most, he said, was to have their pictures taken with the vehicle. More Information More on driving Radiance After putting in thousands of miles behind the wheel, James Keirstead is used to operating Radiance. A typical driving stint is anywhere from four to six hours. The urban jungle, however, takes a lot more concentration.