ISU Solar Car Begins Statewide Tour Team PrISUm is changing the paradigm of transportation AMES –One hundred twenty Iowa State University students are putting the finishing touches on the world’s first Solar Utility Vehicle. Named “Penumbra,” this solar-assisted electric vehicle has been made to change the paradigm of transportation. During the month of June, members from PrISUm (the ISU student organization that manufactured the car) are traveling to all 99 counties in the state of Iowa to showcase the vehicle. #SunRun99 will be stopping at American Waterjet Cutting on June 19th at 9am-11am. “During this time, everyone is welcome to check out this vehicle and even go for a quick spin!” said Smeet Mistry, Team PrISUm’s tour contact. Like most vehicles found in dealerships across the state, Penumbra contains four seats and features Bluetooth audio and wireless charging for cell phones, Mistry explained. Where the differences begin is how Penumbra is powered. Instead of having a gas or diesel tank, Penumbra receives its energy from the sun. As the vehicle drives across the state, the sun recharges the onboard batteries. Fully charged, Penumbra has a “best in class” 200-mile range. On a sunny day, a constant speed of 40 mph can be achieved without any energy from the batteries. Once Penumbra completes #SunRun99, the vehicle will be flown to Australia to compete in the 2017 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge. “Interested in learning more about the vehicle, team, or renewable energy? Be sure to stop by American Waterjet Cutting at 110 South Locust Street, Winfield, Iowa on June 19th!” - Galen Thomson. “American Waterjet Cutting is pleased to partner with the #SunRun99 tour through our state!” -Galen Thomson “American Waterjet Cutting believes in PrISUm Solar Car’s mission to change the future of transportation while spreading excitement about STEM education throughout the state of Iowa. SunRun is an event for all Iowans, and we at American Waterjet Cutting are excited to be a part of this Summer’s tour!” -Galen Thomson