Design relies on generating ideas. Brainstorming is an effective idea-generating technique that is usually done in groups. The goal of a "brainstorming session" is to generate as many ideas as possible in the given time. Groups often include individuals with varied backgounds to get as many perspectives on a problem as possible. The duration of brainstorming sessions varies with the quantity and complexity of the issues to be discussed, but for a student group such as this a session lasting from 15 to 30 minutes is recommended. Students can begin with brainstorming ideas for car components.

Some possible topics for brainstorming sessions are:

To make these sessions productive, it is useful to set a few rules beforehand. One of the most important is "There is no such thing as a dumb idea." Participants are encouraged to contribute ideas they consider silly since these ideas may trigger more practical ones in their own or anther participant's thinking. Another useful rule is "No one may interrupt the person who is speaking." To ensure that everyone gets a chance to contribute ideas, the leader may consider breaking the class into smaller groups and sharing the results of the individual sessions. Students should sketch their ideas as much as possible, or otherwise record them clearly.

For an effective session there should be both a leader and a scribe (the mentor or teacher can serve as one or both). The leader's role is to keep the discussion from getting off-track and maintain order in the group. The scribe's job is to record all ideas that are generated. He or she is permitted to stop the session to ask for clarification of an idea (or for a participant to draw a concept), and should compile the notes for future reference.

Students can also generate ideas outside of brainstorming sessions. A skillful designer combines new ideas with existing ones, or combines existing ideas in innovative ways. To stimulate the generation of ideas and to increase the awareness of existing technologies, related mechanical devices (such as toys and small appliances) should be examined by the students. How did other designers solve problems similar to those in model solar car design (wheels, bearings, transmissions, chassis, etc.)? What parts can be used or where can similar parts be found? Reference books such as "The Way Things Work" by David Macaulay or users's manuals for various appliances may be consulted for ideas. Trips to hardware stores, hobby shops, craft stores, etc. to look at various tools and gadgets are also good ways to get ideas. A good designer sees to it that he or she has a wide variety of ideas to choose from.