American Solar Challenge (ASC)
A cross-country race that is now held every other year during the summer of each even year. Each team races through multiple stages from city to city. The team with shortest total time from the starting stage to the finishing stage, including penalties, is the winner.
Qualification: Each team must complete a on-track, distance requirement specific to the track. In 2021, the car had to either complete 82 laps in a single day, or 124 within two consecutive days. The starting positions for this race are determined by the total distance each team achieved at FSGP.
Formula Sun Grand Prix (FSGP)
A three-day track race held every year. The team that completes the most laps during the allotted race time (usually 24 hours, 8 hours a day for 3 days) is the winner. During the even years, FSGP serves as a qualifying race for ASC. To compete in ASC, you must complete a certain number of laps as determined by the race officials. The number of laps you complete determines your starting position for ASC.
Scruitneering
The rigorous, three-day testing each solar car must complete in order to race on track at FSGP. All components of the cars are checked for safety and performance. The order in which teams pass scrutineering determines the starting order for FSGP.
North American Solar Challenge (NASC)
North American Solar Challenge. Same race as the American Solar Challenge.
Vist the ASC and FSGP webpage at americansolarchallenge.org!
Example: In 2021, 12 teams entered to race in FSGP 2021. Gato VI passed scrutineering first (achieving pole position to start) and finished FSGP in 1st. 9 cars qualified to race in ASC, Gato VI started out front in first, and finished 2nd overall in ASC 2021.