As millions of fans of the hit Netflix show Drive to Survive will attest, the real action often happens off the track. This year, Principia College’s Solar Car team not only notched another impressive underdog performance, they became the unsung—and unlikely—heroes of the race. 

The team clinched a second-place finish in the Formula Sun Grand Prix, beating out prominent and prestigious teams such as Stanford, Michigan State, Purdue, and Texas A&M. And while the Principia College team chose not to compete in the cross-country race, their ingenuity and generosity made an indelible mark. When the University of Michigan team faced a critical mechanical issue, Principia’s team helped by lending a spare motor and motor controller, which proved pivotal for Michigan’s continuation in the American Solar Challenge (ASC).  

Thanks to Principia's help, Michigan’s Solar Car team was not only able to rejoin the competition, but they also took first in their race, claiming their 10th Electrek ASC title after driving over 2,095 miles across the country.  

Daniel Benedict, the project manager for the Michigan team, expressed profound gratitude for Principia’s support. “Principia effectively saved our race,” Benedict told Michigan Engineering. “We’re so grateful they were willing to root for us.” Benedict recounted a challenging moment on the final day of the event, where the Michigan team faced a crucial decision at 4 a.m. on whether to pack up and head home or find a solution to their problem. With Principia’s aid, they were able to continue competing and secure their impressive victory. 

Principia's remarkable showing at the FSGP, coupled with their supportive gesture toward fellow competitors and the subsequent triumph of Michigan, underscores the Principia difference—both on and off the track.