In late fall 2023, we followed the University of Michigan Engineering Solar Car team to Darwin, Australia in their pursuit of first place in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge. Upon arriving, we were thrust right into preliminary testing on the track under the intense heat of the sun. Before we knew it, our adventure took us 3,000 kilometers across the Outback to Adelaide, passing 28 competitors while finishing fourth in the world. Our goal for this video was to show the honest experience of a student team at a global competition. How the unexpected in a race leads to real-world problem solving; where a group of 20-30 students used their individual skills to overcome what often felt like the impossible. We hoped that through this style of storytelling, we could reach potential students and alumni, showing how unique experiences like this set students up for future success. Overcoming the heat, wild environment, vehicle breakdowns, and more, our small crew of two videographers battled the elements and became one with the student team. This allowed us to capture an honest representation of the student experience at a world event, capturing both the lows of the event to the celebratory highs.
From the Judges
From strong interviews to striking b-roll, this high-caliber video captures the passion behind the solar car team and showcases the student experience in a way that feels both professional and authentic.
