Solar Car Race Rules & Registration
Join us for an electrifying competition where science meets speed! The BPUB Solar Car Race Challenge invites students grades 6-12 to build and race their very own solar-powered vehicles.
Here's How It Works
- Register: Submit your registration form and claim one of just 10 available spots!
- Pick Up Your Kit: Collect your official BPUB Solar Race Car Kit from our headquarters at 1425 Robinhood Dr., Brownsville, TX 78521
- Build & Customize: Engineer your speed machine using kit components and your creativity
- Race Day Glory: Compete head-to-head on our 50-foot outdoor track
- Claim Your Trophy: Celebrate your victory at the awards ceremony!
Who Can Join?
- All students in grades 6–12 - from middle school innovators to high school engineers!
Complete your registration with:
- Student name and grade level (6th–12th)
- School name
- Parent/guardian contact information
Event Scehdule
| Time | What's Happening |
|---|---|
| 5:00 - 5:30 PM | Check-In & Car Inspection - Arrive early for technical review |
| 5:30 - 5:45 PM | Practice Runs & Safety Briefing - Perfect your strategy! |
| 6:00 - 6:30 PM | Race Heats Begin - Two exciting heats of 5 cars each |
| 7:30 PM | Awards Ceremony - Victory celebration on the main stage! |
Event Scehdule
Rules & Guidelines
What You CAN Do:
Customize your design - Rearrange and trim kit parts for peak performance- Add personality - Decorate with lightweight materials like cardboard or foam
- Make it yours - Paint and color kit components
- Engineer creatively - All modifications must use only kit parts
What's NOT Allowed:
No outside parts - electrical components, materials, or enhancements- No modifications to solar panel, motor, wheels, axles, or gears
- No energy boosters - mirrors, reflectors, or external power sources
- Stock kit parts only - your solar panel is your only power source!
Race Format
- The Track: 50-foot straight outdoor course with fishing line guides
- The Competition: Two heats, five cars each - pure solar-powered racing
- The Rules: Cars start from rest, no manual assistance, all four wheels must touch the track
- The Victory: First three cars across the finish line win their heat!
Technical Requirements:
- Each car must have a guide hook/eyelet from kit materials
- The fishing line guides but cannot support car weight
- Cars leaving the track or receiving assistance are disqualified
- Race officials ensure fair placement and removal
Awards & Recognition
Winners announced at 7:30 PM during the Big Public Utilities Bash main stage celebration!
- First, Second, and Third Place Trophies
- gift card prizes for the fastest cars
- Recognition at our community celebration
- Keep your solar car kit - a lasting reminder of your engineering achievement!
More Than Just a Race
Your solar car competition is part of the Big Public Utilities Bash - spotlighting utility services, innovation, and family-friendly activities.
Ready to engineer your way to victory? Register today and let the sun power your success!