RORMaxx Formula AE: the first wind powered EV sportscar

Although wind is not frequently contemplated of as a latent source of energy for automobiles, two aspiring high school students in California are doing studies into the possibilities. The founders of RORMaxx Rory Handel and Max Bricklin are working out the minor difficulties on an electric vehicle chiefly propelled by the wind and the sun.Only in its infancy, their Formula AE race vehicle exists only in an early-design stage.

The race vehicle that come with alternative energy will be propelled by a 285 hp AC induction motor, using the most current available sustainable energy technologies. Lightweight, and extremely thin SolarPly paneling will recharge the vehicle’s lithium-phosphate batteries, at the same time adding more to the vehicle’s range to between 15% to 30%. Once mobile, the four air vents channel airflow into four small turbines. These turbines generate electric charges which are stored in ultracapacitors for instant utilization, something that is essential to rapid acceleration.
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Styles79 - 12/18/2008 4:13:49 PM

+1 Boost

Okay, if someone wants to tell me how this works then that'd be great, because the way I see it, the only time that using ducted airflow to a turbine could work would be during deceleration......

DinamoR - 12/19/2008 1:53:51 AM

+1 Boost

this is super cool. i've been wondering for a while why noone is talking about wind turbines on cars- constant wind when you drive! hope they develop this thing

2ndbimmer - 12/19/2008 10:32:37 AM

+1 Boost

does it mean Raugh Out Roud?