Pleasurecraft-sponsored team takes third place in solar boat competition

A team of University of South Carolina mechanical engineers, working with Pleasurecraft Engine Group, took third place in Solar Splash, the World Championship of intercollegiate solar/electric boating, held June 15-19 in Dayton, Ohio.

Since 1994, university teams from across the globe have designed and built prototype solar/electric boats for competition in Solar Splash. Each team’s boat goes through technical inspections followed by five on-the-water competitive events. Points are earned in seven categories to determine an overall champion. USC’s teams have now earned nine Top 5 finishes including three World Championship titles.

In addition to offering financial support, PEG assisted the USC team through the entire 12-month design process. PEG President Mark McKinney and USC team captain (and new PEG engineer) Carver Buis began by attending a hybrid electric boat show in Fort Lauderdale to learn more about the electric marine world. The most valuable support came from the team’s access to PEG engineers’ inputs and perspectives throughout the entire design process.

“Without the influence of PEG in the solar boat project many design issues would have been overlooked. Due to the experience and guidance PEG provided to the team, we were able to place well in the competition and also take home the award for Most Improved Team,” said Buis.

McKinney added, “Pleasurecraft is very proud to have helped the USC team earn the Most Improved award and to once again be competitive in this prestigious competition. Working with these students has been a valuable learning experience for everyone involved and we hope to continue participating in this event for many years to come.”