In January 24, 2007, the first Philippine solar powered car was unveiled to the public. It was the De La Salle Manila University students who built it and was sponsored by the country's top companies including Ford Group Philippines, San Miguel Corporation, Shell, Sunpower, Philippine Airlines and Ventus. This move is to join the global promotion for the use of alternative fuel resource.
The car was given the name SINAG - Tagalog word that means "ray of light". It was intended to compete in the World Solar Challenge 2007 in Adelaide, Australia.
SINAG Basically looks like a pair of wings mounted on wheels, and its solar cell-covered top surface is of a little over six meters squared. The car is made out of carbon fiber and Nomex (aramid fiber) in order to keep it as light as 150 kilograms, so as to achieve a higher running speed.
The car do not only showcased the country's commitment to conserve energy but also the skills that fellow Filipinos have. This requires great skills and technology and the fellows proved they have that.
During the challenge that was participated by 40 countries, the SINAG of the Philippine Team finished a remarkable 11th place, not bad for first timers, eh? The race started in Darwin and ended in Adelaide. That was long! And our car pride finished it with flying colors.
This year, the University again announced that they will participate in the World Solar Challenge 2008. They have developed a better solar car and aims to finish with better performance. They upgraded the parts with better gears and improved the specs.
Let's cross finger for that!
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