Designing a Solar Car

Designing a solar car is no easy task. There are so many things to consider, the shape, materials, cell positioning etc. All of the design factors are crucial in the performance of the car, for instance if the car is just slightly heavier than planned weight many kilometres will be from the distance travelled in a day.
The budget is often a factor in determining the performance of a car. Say of Honda have and unlimited budget they can afford to purchase all the best materials like carbon fibre bodies and brakes, the best batteries, motors and PV's. Whereas the smaller teams without a huge budget would have to settle for lower quality items.
Generally the most aerodynamic, energy efficient and lightest cars will be among the top of the leader board.
Just as a point of interest a solar car actually uses less energy as an electric toaster.