Here comes the sun ... and the Solar Challenge

Teams from around the world will compete in cars powered entirely by the sun’s rays

EAMS from around the globe are descending on South Africa next week to participate in the Sasol Solar Challenge, the local leg of an international race.

Held every two years under the auspices of Motorsport South Africa and the FIA (the world motorsport governing body), this eco-

Tefficiency challenge has teams from around the world demonstrating the sophistication and performance of solar-powered vehicles. The competition also serves as a practical and engaging application of maths, science and technology, exposing learners and students to the opportunities of a potential career in this field. Teams have to design and build their own innovative vehicles and run them purely on the power of the sun’s rays.

The South African leg starts in Pretoria and takes place from September 18-28 with 12 international teams taking part over the two-week, 5 400km trek through the country. Holding thumbs for cloudless skies, the teams will drive a route that includes Bloemfontein, East London, Cape Town and Upington among others.

“South Africa has an abundance of direct sunshine and we are evaluating options to harness this power through solar power technologies,” says Henry Loubser, Managing Director of Sasol New Energy. “Solar power is flexible and can offer energy solutions across different applications.”

Follow the Sasol Solar Challenge on Twitter (@aef_sascor) or on www.solarchallenge.co.za