Tata Power Solar, Manipal varsity unveil solar car prototype

MUMBAI, Apr 22: Tata Power Solar and Manipal University today unveiled a prototype of a solar electric car which can hit the top speed of 60 kmph. Designed by 27-students of Manipal's SolarMobil team for commercial use, the 590-kg solar car operates on technical support provided by the company. The two-seater is custom-fit with solar panels sourced from Tata Power Solar. The panels weigh 35 kg and provide up to 960 watts of power. The car also houses a direct solar drive to maintain the 30 kmph cruising speed. Speaking on the project, P Giridhar Kini, associate director, Manipal University, said, "the industry-academia collaboration is the key to foster innovation among the students. Hence, working with corporates like Tata Power Solar helped our students get technical support and knowledge transfer." Tata Power Solar managing director and chief executive Ashish Khanna chipped in saying "the project epitomises our belief in innovation. We not only encourage innovation within our organisation but also propagate university participation for this cause."