The Dream

The dream was to take on the greatest challenge on the planet that the solar car had ever faced; to not only reach the Arctic Circle, but also to deliver on a promise to set the world distance record for a solar car.

On June 12th 2008 the epic journey began with a symbolic start in Toronto, Ontario, Canada at Seneca College (one of the projects greatest supporters). The actual drive began in Buffalo, NY. The original plan was to drive the solar car from Buffalo, NY to Inuvik, NT and back to Buffalo, NY. However, communities in Alaska and Washington invited the solar car to visit them and so it did.

On July 27, 46 days later, XOF1 reached the Arctic Circle. Later it also broke the world distance record, achieved it’s goal, and fulfilled it’s promise.

Upon its arrival in Los Angeles on March 6th 2009, XOF1 will have driven over 12,500 miles using only sunshine as fuel. Never being plugged into the grid, crossing the continental divide 8 times, traveling over 1200 miles on gravel roads, taken on snow, ice, the low angle of the Northern hemisphere during the wettest summer of the past 30 years, and conquering the infamous Dempster Highway at its worst since it was built 40 years ago. Making history!

Along the way, people and communities graciously opened their homes and made welcome the solar car, driver, and volunteers who joined the project. Their support and generosity made it possible for XOF1 surpass it’s goals without sponsorship or benefactors.

It would be amazing to continue driving the solar car, taking on more challenges and inspiring people along the way. The occasional miles / kms that were adopted helped to alleviate the cost of running the project, however, it isn’t enough to continue the drive without a crew or the proper financial backing. Unless a major sponsor or benefactor steps up, the tour will come to an end upon arrival in Los Angeles.

XOF1 has so much more to accomplish, many more people to inspire, and a future to influence. Dare to keep XOF1 alive and taking on more challenges. XOF1 needs your help.