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Toyota Australia has backed its commitment to green automotive research by becoming a major sponsor of the University of NSW SunSwift II solar car project. SunSwift II, a project undertaken by the UNSW's Solar Racing Team, is Australia's newest solar-powered car.
The car has been two years in the making and is preparing to challenge the existing trans-Australian solar-powered record set by Dick Smith in 1994.
The record-breaking attempt begins on 1st January 1999.
The UNSW team aims to complete the Perth-to-Sydney drive in just over six days, slashing Dick Smith's current 8.5 days benchmark.
Project manager John Ransom has placed his civil engineering degree on hold to complete the project.
"To travel the 4,200 kilometres from Perth to Sydney in six days we will need to average around 70 kilometres per hour - drawing about the same power as a hair drier.
"SunSwift II is a single-seat World Solar Challenge regulation solar car designed to make the most of every watt of energy its solar panel can collect.
"As with most racing vehicles, driver comfort has been compromised to make the vehicle as competitive as possible."
Driving the Nullarbor Plain without airconditioning is one of the greatest challenges facing the drivers.
John welcomed Toyota to the team, saying the record attempt would not be possible without corporate support.
Toyota Australia's sponsorship means the SunSwift II project will receive vital funds to transport the solar car, 25 people and support vehicles, together with 500 kilograms of tools and spares to Perth and back.
It has also provided the team with support vehicles vital to the record attempt. Two 4WD Prados will help transport people and equipment.
The team will end its record attempt at the Sydney Opera House.
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