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 Students of Manipal Institute of Technology have designed the institute’s first ever prototype of a solar-powered car called the SERVe (Solar Electric Road Vehicle) and are exploring the possibility of its commercial production.

Tata Power Solar, the country’s largest integrated solar player in its effort, rendered its assistance for the student project. Designed by a a team of 27 students who call themselves the SolarMobil team, this four-wheeled, two-seater solar vehicle weighs 590 kg and can reach a speed upto 60 kmph with a cruising speed of 30 Kmph.

 The solar panels have been custom-made to fit the car’s curved surface enhancing the aerodynamics and performance of the vehicle. The highly efficient customised panels weigh 35kg and provide up to 960 watts power and weigh less than half of the conventional panels. It also houses a direct solar drive, powered by solar panels, to maintain the cruising speed and is supplemented by extra power from its high-end energy storage system, a release from the institute stated.
“We are happy to see how our students have combined their passion for green energy, through the launch of SERVe. Industry-academia collaboration is the key to foster innovation among the student community. Hence, working with corporates like Tata Power Solar helped our students get technical support and knowledge transfer. The team looks forward to working with more companies for future projects and to continue to nurture student-level innovation,” said Dr P Giridhar Kini, Associate Director, Manipal University.

“We are pleased to be part of the project driven by a talented student-team. The solar car is one of the many ventures which we have supported, and we firmly believe India’s students will act as a key contributor in the progress of our solar industry.” said Ashish Khanna, ED & CEO, Tata Power Solar.