Belgian Solar Team covers most distance and takes lead in Sasol Solar Challenge

Smooth start

The Belgian team was allowed to start second this morning after their qualifying lap last Wednesday. The solar car had no technical problems, allowing the team members to follow their predetermined strategy. They covered 37 km more today than their competitors from Twente and Delft. This put them in the lead of the standings. However, the KU Leuven students arrived too late at the evening stop and will therefore have to stop for 34 minutes tomorrow.

South African traffic

During the competition, the students drive on public roads, among traffic. That brings a lot of challenges. To ensure that no precious time is lost, cooperation within the team is crucial. By timing traffic lights, among other things, the students make sure that their solar car, the Infinite, can move along as smoothly as possible. As a result, the solar car does not have to stop and as little time and energy is lost as possible.

Battle between neighboring countries

The top 3 is currently filled by the Belgians, the team from Delft and the team from Twente. The next seven days promise to be an exciting battle. After the first day of competition, the difference between the three leading teams is minimal. The competition continues for another week and a lot can still happen in that time. The strategy followed by the various teams will play an important role.

Sasol Solar Challenge

The Sasol Solar Challenge takes place from Sept. 13 to 20 in South Africa and is considered the most extreme solar car challenge. It is the second time for the Belgian Solar Team to participate in this unique challenge. Student teams from around the world will be challenged here to cover as much distance as possible on solar energy in eight days. The students hope to cover more than 4,000 km during the eight-day challenge. The challenging course across South Africa provides the team members with a strategic challenge. The Belgians are competing there as reigning world champions. The challenge ends Friday at 3 p.m. During the competition, local schools are also invited to show high school students the possibilities of technology and renewable energy.