Sun shines on new UOIT Solar Vehicle Team

OSHAWA, Ont. - A group of engineering students at UOIT have formed the school's first ever Solar Vehicle Team. The official announcement and launch of this endeavour will take place in the East Atrium of the Science building at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 23. Hosted by students of this team, this event will help publicly kick-off the project through highlights including a model car, hands-on activities, and an audio/visual presentation.

Students have been working on this project for two years and are now looking for the community's support in their efforts; seeking donations and sponsorship to see them through to their goal of a fully completed and "race ready" car in 2006.

After forming an executive team in September 2003, the group since has established a presence within the university by recruiting a design team and gaining financial support from the institution. They are currently in the process of constructing their first vehicle and are simultaneously fundraising to aid in construction.

The UOIT Solar Vehicle Team is the first project of its kind in Durham Region. It is planned to be a collaboration between the academic community and industry-an example of how co-operation can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.

The team has a clear message that they are trying to send which is, "To design and build a competitive solar vehicle that represents UOIT and the community in one of the prestigious solar racing events, while educating students and the public on renewable energy to promote environmental sustainability."  

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About the University of Ontario Institute of Technology
As the province's newest university, the University of Ontario Institute of Technology provides a unique combination of academic knowledge, vibrant student life, leading-edge research, and hands-on skills. The university offers career-focused undergraduate degree programs in the fields of business and information technology, sciences, engineering, nursing, social science, and education. It is also developing leading-edge research and graduate programs, and is Ontario's first laptop-based university. Sharing facilities and selected services with Durham College, UOIT has attracted over 1,800 students since its inception in 2003. To find out more, visit www.uoit.ca or call 1.866.844.8648.

For more information, please contact:

Samveg Saxena, president and founder
UOIT Solar Car Team
905.721.8668 ext. 6980
solarcar@uoit.ca
www.uoitsolarcar.ca

About Ontario Tech University
A modern, forwarding-thinking university, Ontario Tech advances the discovery and application of knowledge to accelerate economic growth, regional development and social innovation. We inspire and equip our students and our graduates to make a positive impact in a tech-focused world. For us, it’s not only about developing the next tech breakthrough. Understanding and integrating the social and ethical implications of technology differentiates us as university. Learn more at ontariotechu.ca.

Media contact
Tania Henvey
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.721.3111 ext. 2513
tania.henvey@uoit.ca