The solar-powered car challenge saw six teams battling it out for two top prizes. This endurance race is in its fourth year and competing teams had to complete as many laps as possible during the three hour race. Maria Mitas, of The Cyprus Institute, which organised the annual event, along with Neapolis University and the municipalities of Paphos and Yeroskipou, said this year’s event was another success. “The main thing is that the race was safe and well organised and that even in a crisis, the teams were able to take part,” she said.

Entrants set off from Neapolis University in Paphos, made their way to Yeroskipou and ended up at Paphos castle for the awards ceremony. The route took the tailor made vehicles around Paphos, much to the delight of the crowds. “This ensured that there was maximum exposure for the race and that members of the public got to see the green creations. Many locals and visitors attended the thrilling race and showed their support and interest,” Mitas said. The rules and regulations of the race are based on those of recognised international world solar challenges. All of the vehicles are environmentally friendly and are powered by the sun and all of the teams that took part designed and built their own vehicles.

“The aim of the race is to raise awareness among the public and especially young people on the use of renewable energy and to encourage them to engage in research, technology and science,” commented assistant professor at The Cyprus Institute Aris Bonanos. Mitas said that through organising the race The Cyprus Institute shows that solar cars represent a green future, as the power comes from solar panels rather than conventional fuels; they don’t cause a nuisance as they are quiet and don’t pollute the atmosphere, as there are no pollutant emissions from the engine.

Source: Cyprus Mail