Comment Re:speed limits, safety? (Score 1) 217
Rolla went 43.3 mph average. Minnesota who came in 2nd (my team) was somewhere around 39mph.
But hey, when their array had over 50% more power, what can you do?
Another issue with speed is that the NGM motors, which most teams use have an adjustable gap, which changes the torque curve and top speed (and peak efficiency range). If you cant change the gap while moving, then you are somewhat limited also.
Main difference now between stock and open class is solar array technology. In the 2003 race, stock teams could only use lead-acid batteries while open class could use anything basically. Top performers were Li-Ion and Li-Ion Polymer.
But hey, when their array had over 50% more power, what can you do?
Another issue with speed is that the NGM motors, which most teams use have an adjustable gap, which changes the torque curve and top speed (and peak efficiency range). If you cant change the gap while moving, then you are somewhat limited also.
Main difference now between stock and open class is solar array technology. In the 2003 race, stock teams could only use lead-acid batteries while open class could use anything basically. Top performers were Li-Ion and Li-Ion Polymer.
