On June 12th, 2008, the solar powered XOF1 sped away from downtown's Pierce Arrow Museum in search of what many have said are unattainable goals. Since that time I have been in contact with Marcelo da Luz, project catalyst, design concept, mechanic and driver of the 'The Power of One, solar car project' team. Just after the Buffalo launch, Marcelo reported that the trip was off to a great start and despite the fact that the vehicle launched late in the day, the team still managed to cover 288.6km (180.1 miles) upon reaching Chesterland, Ohio. The goal? Well there are many, but the loftiest is to reach the Arctic Circle and set the record for a solar powered, long-distance trip. From Marcelo:
"The kick off from Buffalo was very quiet, no one from the media and just a couple of people. We'll be returning to Buffalo hopefully with a distance record which in that case we'll have lots to celebrate."
Though Marcelo is a Torontonian, the experts that he inspired, in order to accomplish the project, hail from the four corners of the earth. Many contributions were made over a long period of time to ensure the success of the project. There is a lot at stake when it comes to this scientific and symbolic trip. There are so many integral facets that it would be best to visit the XOF1 website to track each design, fabrication, technological, educational and social aspect involved. Just yesterday another report came in (from Marcelo) that I would like to share with you:
"XOF1 just became the first solar car in the world to reach north of 60. With every turn of the wheel history is being made.
On June 12th, we started the world distance record tour with the greatest challenge on the planet for a solar car. To reach the Arctic Circle and arrived at the city of Inuvik.
At the moment we are just 200km from the Dempster Highway. We crossed British Columbia wet belt, the Rocky Mountains, took on hail, lots of rain, gravel roads, wild animals and much more... The adventure continues as we head to our biggest challenge on this tour, 750km (466miles) of gravel road, the "infamous" Dempster Highway will be the ultimate test to the solar car machine you (supporters) helped build.
There has been a lot of rain, the Dempster highway was closed for a few days due to overflow from the Mackenzie River and rock slides. The brave volunteers and I are excited and determinate to take on this challenge. Should we succeed, XOF1 will be the first solar car to reach the Arctic Circle.
Once we reach Inuvik, we'll be driving the solar car with the power of the midnight sun."
Good luck Marcelo... we hope that the next time you're in Buffalo there will be a big celebration to ensue.