Both Model E and Model F use the same specifications but different body structures Basically Model E is a multipurpose vehicle and Model F is a family car. Our team decided just to concentrate on the fuel efficiency, design and structure of family car, Model F. We came up with a few ways to lower fuel consumptions. the first is an automated air vent to cool the radiator. It will open when the radiator needs some cooling and close when the radiator is cool enough. The second is the body structure of the car. It is designed as a sport car for a more aerodynamic ride. Both this specifications are made to decrease air resistance and to produce a more aerodynamic shape. From what we found out, this shape can reduce lost of energy due to air resistance.
Other than that, we also came up with another idea to decrease energy waste. Instead of a big filament bulb which most energy is wasted in the form of heat, our car will use LED bulbs for its rear and front light, a simple but effective way to save energy. Now to the crown jewel of cars, the engine, our team decided on a unique energy source not often seen in the automotive industry, magnetic energy.
Our team members also decided that the Model F would be more reliable if it had another source of energy as a backup. We settled that our model should have solar energy as its alternative source of energy. We planned to fix a PVL (photovoltaic laminates) solar panel on the roof of our car. Besides that, our team member decided to add another solution to make our Model F more efficient, which is regenerating brake energy. Reliable information from the Internet indicated that ample of energy are lost when we brake. We are sure that this innovation will be a turning point for fuel efficiency in the near future.
http://car.page.org/2008-intersolar/model-solar-racer.htm
http://www.nauticexpo.com/prod/uni-solar/flexible-solar-panel-for-boat-21778-52021.html