Solar Boat Regatta 2025 (WIP)
The Solar Boat Regatta is a statewide competition where students design and build a fully solar-powered boat from scratch. For this year’s entry, our team engineered a custom drivetrain using CAD and 3D printing, implemented a complete solar-electric system, and assembled the hull using lightweight aluminum for strength and sustainability. The project emphasized technical integration, efficient design, and hands-on fabrication across the drivetrain and assembly teams.
Timeline: Janurary 2025 - May 2025
Solar Regatta Group Photo
Media
ChaBoat at SMUD about the race
Post water test. Success!
Driver riding the boat in water
First water test with driver!
More Boat Testing!
Drive Train Testing.
Complete Schematic of DriveTrain
Drawing of Drivetrain before CADing.
Gearbox
Trapping oil to improve gearbox efficiency.
Gearbox
3D Printed Propeller. Material is PLA-CF. Designed by Damon.
Gearbox Housing CAD
CAD Gearbox Housing in Solidworks. Designed by Noreen.
Contributors
Name
Role
Contribution Highlight
Kevin
Project Manager
Led and managed two core teams: CADers to design parts of the drivetrain and Assembly to construct the frame.
Damon
CADer
Designed an efficient propeller design on Onshape.
Noreen
CADer
Designed an hydro-dynamic gearbox housing to house the transmission of the boat.
Mustafa
CADer
Designed the housing for the input shaft.
Nathan
CADer
Designed two components: Drivetrain connectors and control panel.
Mya
CADer
Designed an efficient steering system and rudder.
Saul
Assembly
Constructed and assembled the boat’s structural frame using aluminum tubing and precision tools.
Fabio
Assembly
Constructed and assembled the boat’s structural frame using aluminum tubing and precision tools.
Aaron
Assembly
Constructed and assembled the boat’s structural frame using aluminum tubing and precision tools.
Leah
Driver
Piloted the boat in timed race events and trials, maintaining optimal control and responsiveness under varying water conditions.
Chelsea
Driver
Piloted the boat in timed race events and trials, maintaining optimal control and responsiveness under varying water conditions.