To drive a solar-powered car that never needs to be charged

Solar Mobility

You’ve chosen to imagine a future where your ride runs completely on sunshine! You might want to learn more about solar mobility—the idea of powering vehicles using energy from the sun instead of gas. Maybe then we could transform all gas stations into donut shops!

Fun Facts:

The first solar‑powered vehicle, the Sunmobile, was demonstrated in 1955 by General Motors engineer William Cobb in the United States.
Solar cars race every two years in the World Solar Challenge across the Australian desert, powered only by sunlight.
Ancient civilizations used mirrors to focus sunlight and make fire—an early way humans learned to harness solar energy.

Solar Mobility

LISTEN

We are learning how to move around the world using clean, renewable energy from the sun. Solar mobility means designing lightweight cars and buses with roofs covered in solar panels. Engineers are already testing pod-shaped vehicles that store sunlight to power motors. Maybe then we could transform all gas stations into donut shops!

Fun Facts:

The Lightyear 0 car, made in the Netherlands, can drive 400 miles using solar panels.
NASA’s Mars rovers, like Opportunity and Spirit, used solar panels to explore another planet.
Cities like Las Vegas now use solar power for streetlights and traffic signals.
In 1839, scientist Alexandre Edmond Becquerel discovered how sunlight creates electricity.
Engineers are testing solar-powered trains and boats in Japan and India.

Discussion Question:‍

How might solar-powered vehicles change the way our cities sound, look, and feel?

LISTEN

Physical Build:

You can make a mini solar vehicle using a small solar panel, toy wheels, and recycled cardboard. Set it in sunlight and watch it roll—no batteries needed! You’ll see how sunlight can be turned directly into motion.

‍

Digital Build:

Ask ChatGPT:

“Imagine a futuristic solar pod that drives kids to school using sunlight.”

Then draw or design your own solar-powered ride based on the description.

or a car that transforms into a boat whenever you reach water?

Boat Car

Amphibious Design

LISTEN

You’ve chosen to imagine a vehicle that glides smoothly from land to water without stopping! You might want to learn more about amphibious design—creating inventions that work across different environments. Don’t forget your towel—your car might splash before class!

Fun Facts:

The first amphibious car, the Amphicar, was made in Germany in the 1960s.
Some cities, like Amsterdam and Bangkok, already use floating buses and ferries for everyday travel.
Ancient people built reed boats that could glide through rivers long before engines existed.

Amphibious Design

LISTEN

We are exploring how vehicles can move on land and water without needing two separate machines. Amphibious design helps people in flood-prone or island areas travel safely and stay connected. Engineers are studying how flexible materials and strong seals can make cars that float and splash through waves. These designs could even create new kinds of family adventures or floating classrooms! Don’t forget your towel—your car might splash before class!

Fun Facts:

The WaterCar Panther can switch from road to water in under 15 seconds.
During World War II, the U.S. made “DUKW” vehicles that carried supplies over rivers and beaches.
In Bangladesh, floating schools let kids keep learning even during floods.
Designers in Thailand are testing solar-powered water taxis that work during monsoon season.
NASA studies amphibious rovers for planets with icy or liquid surfaces, like Titan.

Discussion Question:‍

If more vehicles could travel on both land and water, how might that change where people choose to live?

LISTEN

Physical Build:

Try making a floating vehicle using sponges, straws, and cardboard. See if you can make it roll on land and float in water—just like an amphibious car!

‍

Digital Build:

Ask ChatGPT:

“Describe a futuristic car that transforms into a boat for ocean adventures.”

Then use what you imagine to draw or build a model of your own wave-skimming ride.