The University of Calgary solar team is losing a bit of ground in the North American Solar Challenge.
Meanwhile, a European team is holding strong in the top 5 and turning heads with its flashy design. Students from the Bochum University of Applied Sciences are the only European team in the race.
Their solar car is modeled in the shape of a dolphin and is getting plenty of attention along the route. The team is also outfitted with the latest weather and wind sensor technology, allows them to prepare for obstacles and stay ahead of the curve.
For many of the German team members this is their first visit to North America. Team member Victor Hauser says it's been an eye opening experience. "I was very very surprised with the big landscape about he big fields and the flat areas and the rocky mountains I am excited to see the car running in front of them it's really nice" says Hauser.
Teams left Plano, Texas on Sunday. Only 13 teams are now in the race. Teams from the UK and Oregon State were disqualified after their cars encountered serious mechanical problems.
The ranking is now:
- University of Michigan
- Principia- St. Louis Missouri
- Bochum University
- University of Waterloo
- Minnesota
- Missouri University Science and Technology
- Calgary
