Started in 1987, the
World Solar Challenge is the longest distance race of solar vehicles and probably the most challenging. Solar cars built by hand, mostly by students and driven by them, from around the world, compete in the blazing Australian outback. It is the spirit of innovation in clean tech for urban mobility, adventure, and camaraderie, celebrated in a 3000 km race across Australia, from the North (Darwin) to the South (Adelaide). All for "
the development of future mobility for a sustainable society".
Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (BWSC) 2019 was by far the most event filled race ever, with a few solar cars consumed by fire, some blown by strong winds off the road and one sucked overturned by a road train. Fortunately, there was no serious injury. Some teams recovered from car damages to still finish in respectable timing. Not to mention, driving in 43 degrees Celsius heat in the Northern Territory without power steering, air-con and proper cushioned seats, and operating in the bug infested bushland. Teams had to be self-sufficient for the whole journey (from food to tech support) to stand a chance for top positions.
It has been a privilege to witness this amazing event. Here are some photos.
Read more at the organiser's media page:
https://www.worldsolarchallenge.org/news/latest-news/
