Monday, April 20, 2009

1912.9 MPG!


Winners!


The California Team
Bottom (from left): Laura Slingerland, Nicole Peterson
Top (from left): Pete Sullivan, Toby Snider, Jared Kloda, Matt Shiskowski, Leland Engel, Nate Troupe

I'm pleased to announce that the Penn State Eco-Marathon team achieved a fuel mileage of 1912.9 miles per gallon equivalent, and took first prize in the fuel cell division. We had a few struggles including tools arriving late, hydrogen leaks, and unsecured components; but were able to persevere and take home the prize.

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Shipped Out

Our car and supplies were successfully shipped out this week, and the team will embark on Wednesday morning. All preparations now come down to logistics, strategy, maintenance and small changes to increase efficiency. The team is looking forward to our trip this week, and hopes it will be a success for not only Penn State, but also for ourselves.

Monday, April 6, 2009

Packed Up and Ready to Go

After extensive testing, modifying, and packing; the car is finally ready to embark on its long trip to the Eco-Marathon. The team spent most of each of the last 3 days working on the car, making small adjustments and last minute repairs. Today was spent packing up the car, along with everything we need for the competition. If all goes to plan, tomorrow we send the car on its way, and the team can rest easy for a week before we head out next Wednesday.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

No April Fools Here


After weeks of updating the innards of the car, we finally have a picture of the body. The vehicle dynamics team has placed the body on the car and I was able to grab a quick picture today of their progress. There are some minor adjustments needed, but the car has taken another step on the long road to California.