Dalhousie Solar Car Community Day

Saturday, November 30th, marked Dalhousie Solar Car Community Day, the first event of its kind hosted by the Dalhousie Solar Car Team. Designed for members of the HRM community interested in renewable energy and sustainability, the event provided an exciting opportunity to explore green technology. Attendees even had the unique chance to see NOVA, Atlantic Canada’s first solar-powered electric vehicle!

The day kicked off early as our team transformed the Emera Idea Atrium into an interactive sustainability education space. Booths from various organizations lined the atrium walls, offering engaging activities and information. Guests could take photos with our mascot, Phil, or contribute to our large pledge wall, where they shared personal commitments to environmental sustainability.

As the clock struck 10 AM, attendees began arriving, eager to explore the exhibits. The event featured booths showcasing local organizations and green technology, along with hands-on activities and guided tours of our shop. Visitors also had the chance to win Dalhousie Engineering swag or their very own Photovoltaic Phil. The highlight of the event was NOVA, proudly displayed in the atrium for everyone to see!

Next Ride joined us to showcase an electric bicycle and provide test drives in a Chevrolet Bolt EV. Our team had a fantastic time test-driving the vehicle around Halifax! Meanwhile, Dalhousie Solar Car Team members hosted interactive booths where guests could learn about working with carbon fiber and basic electrical circuits. These exhibits provided an excellent opportunity to explore how sustainability can be integrated into engineering careers.

One of the most anticipated sessions of the day was the mini solar car building workshop. Over 25 high school students from across the HRM gathered to construct their own miniature solar-powered cars. With guidance from the Solar Car team, each participant assembled and decorated a working model to take home. This hands-on activity encouraged critical thinking, innovation, and land-based learning, aligning with our mission to inspire the next generation of engineers and sustainability advocates.

More than 170 community members attended Solar Car Community Day, making it a tremendous success for the Dalhousie Solar Car Team. We are incredibly proud of this milestone and deeply appreciate everyone who helped make it possible. Our team is incredibly grateful for the societies, organizations, and local businesses that participated and contributed to the success of this event.

A special thank you to the Dalhousie Sextant for their generous funding and support!

To stay updated on our team and future events, follow us on Instagram (@dalsolarcar) or reach out via email at solarcar@dal.ca!