More than 200 high school students from across the region are gearing up to put their science and engineering skills to the test on Thursday, April 24, as they race solar-powered model cars of their own design in the 18th annual SMUD Solar Car Race at Sacramento State University.
Set to take place just outside Riverside Hall on the Sac State campus, the annual competition challenges students to combine creativity with renewable energy principles in a friendly, high-energy race. Races begin at approximately 10 a.m. and run through 2 p.m., offering students a full day of STEM-centered learning, teamwork and innovation.
Each team is tasked with designing and building a unique solar-powered car using solar panels, motors, and gear sets provided to them. The rest is up to the students—who must tap into ingenuity and engineering know-how to make their miniature vehicles both fast and efficient.
Students won’t just be vying for bragging rights on the track. SMUD will award teams in several categories, including speed, innovation, sustainability, and creativity. It’s all part of the organization’s broader effort to support science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education throughout the Sacramento region.
“Events like this are a great way to bring real-world applications into the classroom,” said SMUD Board President Gregg Fishman, who will be in attendance. “We’re excited to see what these young innovators have come up with—and they never fail to impress.”
The Solar Car Race has grown significantly in popularity in recent years as STEM-based curriculum becomes a cornerstone in many area schools. The race provides a tangible opportunity for students to explore concepts like solar energy and mechanical engineering in a hands-on, competitive environment that encourages critical thinking and collaboration.
In addition to the model car races, SMUD also hosts the annual California Solar Regatta—a similar STEM-powered event taking place on May 2 and 3 at the Rancho Seco Recreational Area. That event features full-sized, student-built solar-powered boats and is another highlight in SMUD’s calendar of educational initiatives.
These programs align closely with SMUD’s mission to decarbonize its power supply and foster environmental sustainability through innovation and community engagement. The utility provider, which has delivered electricity to Sacramento County for more than 75 years, is working toward a zero-carbon electricity goal by 2030. As of 2023, 78 percent of its energy was already carbon-free.
More information about the Solar Car Race can be found at smud.org/solar-car-race. For details on the upcoming Solar Regatta, visit smud.org/solar-regatta.
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