Sasol’s Solar Challenge returns for its 8th installment
Introduced in 2008 to promote innovation and development in solar technology, particularly in the automotive sector, the Sasol Solar Challenge (SSC) is entering its 8th edition in September this year.
Commencing on September 13th and concluding on September 20th, the event promises an exhilarating experience for participants. This year’s challenge features a striking new route, increased female participation, and entries from some of the world’s top solar car teams.
This year’s edition will see 14 local and international competitors travel from Secunda, Mpumalanga, to Cape Town in the Western Cape over the span of eight days. The challenge will test the limits of solar technology against SA’s challenging and stunning terrains while pushing the boundaries of what solar-powered vehicles can achieve.
The SSC remains an event known for its unique blend of invention, strategy, and endurance. Competitors face technical hurdles in solar vehicle design and must navigate strategic complexities in route planning and energy management. According to Sasol, the SSC is not just a race; it’s a showcase of teamwork, problem-solving, and the pursuit of sustainable mobility.
“Breakdowns are common, demanding teamwork and innovative solutions to get competitors to the finish line in an epic showdown that inspires future entrants and exciting viewing for spectators,” says Rob Walker, Director of the Sasol Solar Challenge.
The 2024 SSC is acknowledged for its record number of female participants in positions ranging from drivers and engineers to communication and marketing. This focus on gender assortment emphasises the increasing presence of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
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