1995-1997 Solar Motorsports Team Presents

Mach V

The 1997 Mach V team was built on the management and engineering foundation laid down by the 1995 Aggie Beamer Sunrayce Team. Standing on the shoulders of industry and university support, the 1997 team was able to bolster our ranking from the Beamer's 27th place to fourth place. The Mach V featured numerous enhancements from the 1995 vehicle. A new shell made from carbon fiber and divinyl cell foam brought enhanced aerodynamics. A Nomex composite chassis reduced the weight of the vehicle significantly.

Formula-style suspension reduced rolling resistance and flex while maintaining superior handling abilities. Single piece aluminum disc wheels along with a state-of-the-art in-hub electric motor gave the Mach V the most efficient propulsion possible. The electrical system included a central microcomputer that monitored vehicle systems, reporting battery capacity, vehicle speed, and efficiencies of other components over a radio modem. The electrical system was awarded the most Innovative Electrical System by the Department of Energy.