SunTiger V

SunTiger V was conceived after a disheartening 11th place finish by an aging SunTiger IV in 2001. Headed by a devoted veteran core, the 2003 team set out to design a new car that was superior in every aspect. Featuring the first new SunTiger body shape since SunTiger 3 in 1997, the car was able to meet new sizing regulations. Several key aerodynamic improvements were implemented: an integrated, molded canopy with a windshield, a cambered airfoil shape to account for the much lower ride height, and an improved wing-section wheel fairing shape.

SunTiger V was unveiled in January of 2003 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, MI.

SunTiger V Specs

Final standing: 6th place
Weight with driver: 586 lbs.
Array: 3000+ Ga-As space-grade solar cells, custom encapsulation
Motor: NGM axial flux 3-phase AC, wheel hub mount
Battery: 640+ LG-Chemical Li-ion cells
Frame: Hybrid carbon fiber composite semi-monocoque with chromoly steel tubing torsion structure
Body: carbon fiber/nomex honeycomb composite bottom, kevlar/nomex composite top
Wheels: four NGM 6061 Al rims with Bridgestone/Ecopia tires at 114 psi
Wheel configuration: 2 front, 2 rear - standard car configuration