Questions and Answers
Q: What is the Grand Valley State University Electric Racing Team (ERT)?
A: ERT is a student organized club which competes against collegiate teams racing solar/electric boats at the annual Solar Splash held in Milwaukee.
Q: What exactly is a solar/electric boat?A: Solar/electric craft utilize both electric storage devices (usually onboard batteries) and solar panels which convert the sun's rays into an electric current. Both sources are used to power electric motors which propel the craft.
Q: How fast is a solar/electric boat?A: Speeds of 35 to 40 mph can be witnessed in the Solar Splash sprint competition. ERT's Proteus is approaching the 25 to 30 mph range through design improvements while our newest boat, Loki, will likely reach the 35 mph mark or more.
Q: What takes place at Solar Splash?A: Solar Splash is a competition held over several days on the Maier Festival grounds in Milwaukee. It includes both racing events and judged components. Sprint, endurance, and maneuverability events generate points based on head to head competition. Technical reports and educational displays are individually judged. Grand point totals determine the final ranks of competing teams.
Q: What do your boats, Proteus and Loki, look like?A: Proteus (Pictured without Solar Panels)
A: Loki (Prototype picture before solar/electric outfitting)
