Solar Race Car Experiment Kit

Experiment with solar energy and electric cars as you design, build, and race your own mini race car!

This solar race car experiment kit is a great STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) hands-on learning experience. The kit comes with everything you need to develop and apply the principles of basic physics, mechanics, and solar energy while also developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Students can experiment with gear drive and pulley drive systems to find out which produces the fastest solar car. They can test different solar cell positions to determine which is most effective. The car can also operate on battery power, so designs can be tested and perfected indoors or on cloudy days. Experiment with different voltage outputs with additional solar cells.

While this solar race car experiment kit includes principles of design and construction tips, it provides great flexibility and freedom for students to create, build and test their own designs. You provide two AA batteries (optional), sharp knife or scissors, glue, tape, and decoration if desired.

Solar Race Car Experiment Kit

• balsa wood sheet (3" x 12)
• 0.5 volt solar cell
• electric motor
• AA battery holder (batteries not included)
• set of four gears
• set of four pulleys
• four small plastic wheels
• dowels for axles
• straws for axle bearings
• rubber bands
• metal eye screws
• design information