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Primavera II
Completed
Role
Battery design & Logistics management
Project Description
Every two years the World Solar Challenge takes place in Australia - a 3,022 km race from Darwin to Adelaide promoting renewable energy technologies worldwide. The Primavera project was born in Medellin, the city of eternal spring, from the proposal of Jorge Andres Barrera, a graduate from MIT, who wanted to show that Colombia has world-class engineering potential.
In 2014, Primavera II development commenced with a dedicated team of 30 individuals - enthusiastic undergraduates alongside experienced master's and doctoral students - divided into six subsystems: mechanics, aerodynamics, bodywork, electronics, logistics, and strategy.
The Opportunity
Primavera II presented a remarkable opportunity for EAFIT University and EPM to showcase their commitment to sustainable engineering and demonstrate Colombia's potential in the global renewable-energy field. By pushing the boundaries of solar-powered transportation, the project aimed to inspire innovation and motivate further advancements across the automotive and energy industries.
The Challenge
Developing a competitive solar vehicle came with significant challenges: engineering complexities, logistical hurdles, and stringent competition requirements. The team needed a vehicle that was energy-efficient, lightweight, aerodynamic, and capable of enduring 3,022 km of gruelling Australian outback conditions - all while balancing performance, reliability, and efficiency.
My Role
1. Designing the Battery Pack
As the designer of the battery pack, I optimised the energy storage and delivery system - considering energy density, charging capabilities, and system safety - contributing to the overall performance and endurance of Primavera II throughout the race.
2. Managing Team Logistics and Vehicle Transport
I also managed the logistics of the entire team and coordinated transport of the vehicle to Australia - navigating customs regulations, securing nearly half a million dollars in experimental-vehicle insurance, and ensuring Primavera II arrived safely and on time in Darwin.
The Solution
Six specialised subsystems: Mechanics integrated all components for optimal performance. Aerodynamics conducted wind-tunnel testing to reduce drag. Bodywork manufactured a lightweight composite shell. Electronics developed advanced solar energy management. Logistics managed resources and supply chain. Strategy devised a data-driven race plan covering speed optimisation and energy deployment.
Project Result
Primavera II secured a position among the top 10 solar vehicles in the world at the 2015 World Solar Challenge in Australia. The achievement showcased Colombia's engineering talent on the world stage and inspired future generations to pursue sustainable engineering - proving that solar-powered vehicles represent a genuine paradigm shift in transportation.
Technologies Used
Design & Manufacturing
The vehicle's components were modelled in SolidWorks and PTC Creo Parametric. Physical production relied on CNC machining for structural parts, laser cutting for precision elements, sheet metal bending for the chassis, 3D printing for custom fixtures, and composite material layup for the aerodynamic shell.
Software & Firmware
Custom PCB boards managed power distribution and sensor integration. Arduino provided the embedded control platform for battery monitoring and telemetry. WiFi and LoRa enabled real-time data transmission and race-day strategy communication between the vehicle and the team.
Details