A powerful glimpse into the future of transportation rolled into Bowling Green this summer as the 2025 Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix (FSGP) brought cutting-edge innovation and collegiate passion trackside. Over 30 university teams from across North America converged at the iconic track with hand-built, solar-powered vehicles, turning the venue into a live laboratory of renewable energy and engineering excellence.
Unlike traditional motorsport events, the FSGP is a unique three-day endurance challenge where teams strive to complete the most laps using nothing but solar energy. This year’s competition marked the 25th anniversary of the event and featured two classes: Single-Occupant Vehicle (SOV) and Multi-Occupant Vehicle (MOV). The University of Illinois claimed victory in the SOV category, completing 223 laps—the equivalent of over 700 miles—while Polytechnique Montréal led the MOV class with 222 laps.
“This event is a celebration of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration,” said Shannon Bere, Track Manager at NCM Motorsports Park. “Seeing the next generation of engineers push boundaries and problem-solve in real time is inspiring. These students are shaping the future, and we’re proud to host a race that reflects those values.”
The Electrek FSGP isn’t just about performance—it’s about education, experimentation, and impact. For student participants, the experience extends beyond the racetrack, offering hands-on lessons in aerodynamics, energy storage, electrical systems, and clean mobility design. The event is often a gateway to career opportunities in tech, engineering, and automotive industries.
“There’s something special about seeing solar cars zoom down a course built for performance cars,” Bere added. “It’s a blend of tradition and progress—and it proves that innovation has a home here at NCM Motorsports Park.”
The event was free and open to the public, giving spectators the opportunity to engage with solar teams, view futuristic vehicles up close, and witness sustainable innovation in motion. With a spirit of camaraderie and a mission-driven purpose, the 2025 FSGP offered more than just a race—it delivered a vision of what’s possible when sun-powered dreams take the wheel.
