From Classroom to Racetrack: FSE Sponsors Pacific Academy’s Solar Car Endeavor

The student team and FSE mentors.

At FSE, we are driven by our passion for technological innovation and our commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineers. We are thrilled to announce our sponsorship for Pacific Academy's solar car project. The team is about to head to Texas to participate in the 2024 Solar Car Challenge at the world-famous Texas Motor Speedway.

The roof view at FSE.

As part of our commitment to a sustainable future, FSE is proud to be the first automotive service shop in the LA area to fully embrace solar energy. Our power system, designed, engineered, and tested by the shop owner himself, has been powering our facility 100% on solar energy since the beginning of summer 2024. Therefore, it's a great honor for us to support the students' solar car project.

We are incredibly impressed by their ability to perform under tight time constraints.

Background of the Solar Car Challenge

The Solar Car Challenge was established in 1993 with the mission to motivate students in science and engineering, and to increase awareness of alternative energy. This competition leads high school students around the world how to build roadworthy solar cars. Every year, the event alternates between showcasing the student-built cars at the Texas Motor Speedway and driving cross-country to share their projects with millions of people. This year, the challenge was hosted by Oncor and Lockheed Martin as a closed-track event at the Texas Motor Speedway.

The mentors are proud of the students' achievements.

The car and the students are fully prepared for the competition ahead.

Empowering Young Innovators

FSE is honored to sponsor Pacific Academy, a prestigious K-12 private school in Irvine known for its academic excellence and innovative programs. We have provided the students with fabrication tooling, equipment, and full access to our facility. This hands-on experience is invaluable for the students, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world engineering challenges.

The chassis, power system, drivetrain, and suspension were all independently designed and built by the students.

A Journey of Learning and Innovation

Pacific Academy's student team demonstrated exceptional skills in power system design, chassis fabrication, and overall project management. Their dedication and hard work paid off as they load the completed car onto the trailer, fully prepared for the challenges ahead. The Solar Car Challenge not only tests student's knowledge but also cultivates teamwork, problem-solving, and innovative thinking.

The car features robust roll cage with paddings, kill switch, radio communication, and fire extinguishing system to ensure safety.

Investing in Education and Community

FSELA believes in the power of education to transform communities and shape the future. Our support for Pacific Academy's solar car project is part of our broader mission to foster educational development. By providing resources and expertise, we aim to empower young minds to explore and excel in STEM fields.

Now that looks like a race car!

Recognition and Impact

The Solar Car Challenge has garnered significant recognition for its impact on STEM education and youth empowerment. Recently, the challenge received the 2023 NBC Universal Foundation Local Impact Grant, highlighting its positive influence on the North Texas education community. Additionally, Technology & Learning Magazine named the Solar Car Challenge one of America's Top 10 Most Innovative Education Programs.

The finished project has gone through rigorous testing at Willow Spring International Raceway.

Looking Ahead

We are immensely proud of the Pacific Academy team and their achievements. Their journey from concept to competition is a testament to what can be accomplished by the motivated students today. As they head to Texas for the competition, we are confident they will showcase not only their problem-solving skills but also the spirit of teamwork. We are certain that they will continue their pursuit of excellence in energy, environmental science, electrical, aerospace, mechanical or motorsports engineering.

The team is on their way to Texas!

At FSE, we remain committed to supporting educational projects that inspire and teach future engineers. We believe that by investing in education and providing practical experiences, we can help shape a brighter, more sustainable future for all.

Stay tuned for updates on Pacific Academy's performance in the Solar Car Challenge and join us in celebrating the incredible achievements of these young engineers!