See Innovation in Action: Electrek American Solar Challenge 2026 – La Crosse Checkpoint

See the solar cars and meet the teams as they travel 1500+ miles on America’s National Scenic Byways! In this collegiate event, teams of students have designed and built solar powered vehicles, qualified during the Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix, and are now putting these innovative vehicles to the test, traveling 1500+ miles from Minneapolis, MN to Amarillo, TX along portions of the Great River Road and Route 66, in honor of the Route 66 Centennial. From July 25-August 1, the teams are challenged to complete as many miles as possible on solar power and will compete in 2 exciting classes: the single-occupant vehicle (SOV) class and the multi-occupant vehicle (MOV) class, which have additional practicality features, including carrying passengers and luggage.

For the checkpoint, the solar cars will arrive staggered, serve a nominal 30-minute hold time, and then have the option to continue to solar charge, or if they have extra power available, drive an optional challenge loop, returning to the checkpoint. Throughout the checkpoint, this traveling exhibit of solar powered vehicles will continue to arrive and depart until they are released to continue on the route. During the checkpoint, you will have the opportunity to see the solar cars up close and speak with the team members that designed and built these innovative vehicles as well as participate in any other activities our location host has going on that day.

This is a family friendly event and great for anyone interested in STEM, experiential learning, innovation, solar, and checking out some really cool vehicles built by college students that will be our future engineers, innovators, and leaders! All times given are approximate and may vary based on weather and traffic conditions. Please check our event website and follow us on social media to stay up to date.