CALGARY - Competitors from across Canada and the United
States gathered in Calgary to celebrate the end of a 10-day race proving that
solar-powered vehicles can go the distance.
The North American
Solar Challenge Race 2005 (NASC), which began in Austin, Texas, on
July 17 and ends today at the Olympic Oval in Calgary, highlights the potential
for solar-powered technologies. The
University of Michigan placed first. Canada's top team, the University of
Waterloo, followed closely in the standings with a fifth place finish. Natural
Resources Canada (NRCan) was one of the sponsors of the race.
"I would like to congratulate all the students for the incredible innovation
and commitment they have demonstrated in taking on this challenge. Their vision
is leading us toward a cleaner energy future, and the Government of Canada is
proud to support their efforts," said the Honourable R. John Efford, Minister of
Natural Resources Canada.
"Solar cars have captured the public's imagination since the first one was
built more than 20 years ago," said Richard King, Head of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Photovoltaics
Research Program. "Every year, we've seen improvements in performance and
reliability, and this year was no exception. We've also seen solar technology
improve over that time, dropping considerably in cost. This competition clearly
demonstrates that solar power works and that, although you may not be able to
drive your own solar car today, you can use solar power to supply the energy
needs of your home or your business."
The fourth edition of this challenge, NASC 2005 marks the first time
competitors have crossed into Canada as a part of the race. More than 25 teams
competed to design, build and race the fastest solar-powered cars in North
America in a 4,023-kilometre race. Teams stopped at a number of checkpoints
along U.S. Highway 75 and the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1).
As a strong supporter of new technology and innovation to better promote the
responsible use of energy and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions that
contribute to climate change, the Government of Canada was proud to support all
Canadian participants in the race. Five Canadian universities sent teams to the
challenge, including McMaster University, Queen's University, the University of
Calgary, the University of Waterloo and Red River College.
In past years, Canadian teams have not only crossed the finish line, but have
also managed to gain considerable recognition. In 2003, the University of
Waterloo finished third overall, and was also awarded the Technical Innovation
Award for the development of a component that improved the sailing capacity of
its car.
The North American Solar Challenge 2005 is sponsored by NRCan, as well as the
DOE and its National Renewable
Energy Laboratory. Other sponsors include TransAlta, the University of Calgary,
CSI Wireless, AMD, and Manitoba Transport and Government Services.
The Government of Canada's approach to climate change is focussed on making
the right choices for Canada. This will ensure that the actions taken contribute
to the long-term goals of building a sustainable economy for the 21st
century, a healthier environment and strong communities while affirming Canada's
place in the world.
For final standings of all teams and for more information on the NASC, please
visit http://www.americansolarchallenge.org/.
FOR BROADCAST USE:
Competitors in the North American Solar Challenge 2005 have crossed the
finish line in Calgary. Solar-powered vehicles from across Canada and the United
States participated in the 10-day race that began in Austin, Texas. The
University of Michigan placed first. Canada's top team, the University of
Waterloo, followed closely in the standings with a fifth place finish. The
Canadian teams were sponsored by Natural Resources Canada, which also
co-sponsored the race.
For more information, media may contact:
Ghyslain Charron
Tom Ormsby
Media Relations
Director of Communications
Natural Resources Canada
Office of the Minister
Ottawa
Natural Resources Canada
(613) 992-4447
Ottawa
(613) 996-2007
