Circuit of The Americas Sponsors UTSVT Team at Formula Sun Grand Prix

Circuit of The Americas, which hosts F1’s US Grand Prix, has announced its sponsorship of The University of Texas at Austin Solar Vehicles Team (UTSVT) participating in the Formula Sun Grand Prix June 24-29, 2013.

The Circuit’s $50,000 sponsorship will cover costs associated with the production of the university team’s solar cars, including the array of photovoltaic cells that cover the body of the car and convert sunlight into electricity which powers the car’s motor. The Formula Sun Grand Prix will be held at the new world-class destination for premier motorsport, entertainment and special events. This is the first time the Formula Sun Grand Prix event will be hosted at an official Formula 1 racetrack.

UTSVT is a volunteer, student-run organization committed to developing solar electric vehicles and representing The University of Texas at Austin in international solar car competitions. The team is comprised of approximately 50 members, most of whom are undergraduate students in the Cockrell School of Engineering. UTSVT will also serve as the local university host for the event and will organize a variety of activities for the participating teams.

“Circuit of The Americas is committed to supporting educational initiatives in the local community, and we are honored to sponsor the local university host team for this event,” Circuit Director of Sustainability Edgar Farrera said. “Our company shares the Formula Sun Grand Prix’s commitment to renewable energy and industries that prioritize environmental stewardship. We hope students’ involvement in this challenge inspires them to seek careers in energy management, aerodynamics, fabrication and high-tech materials.”

“The Cockrell School of Engineering at UT Austin is excited to partner with the Formula Sun Grand Prix,” Dean Gregory L. Fenves said. “This race will engage science and engineering students across the nation in the application of solar energy technology, and it is an opportunity for our engineering students on the solar vehicles team to showcase their innovations and problem-solving skills.”

The Formula Sun Grand Prix is an annual collegiate solar car track event. Before arriving at the host track, teams design and build a solar-powered vehicle in accordance with the event regulations.