The 2024 Sasol Solar Challenge saw the competition reach new heights as teams pushed their solar-powered vehicles to the limit on their way to the scenic town of Augrabies. With just four days left of the competition until the grand finale at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, the intensity is palpable, and the pressure is mounting as teams battle for top positions.
Road conditions from Kuruman, Upington to Augrabies were what the teams were hoping for – flat with fewer steeps that allowed the drivers to accelerate hoping to achieve maximum efficiency.
However, drivers have started feeling the heat as every kilometer counts at this stage of the challenge to achieve maximum efficiency.
Nicole Nkunze, a female driver from The Rarz Team reflected on the mounting competition. “The challenge has become fierce. Every team is pushing hard, and the margins between us are shrinking. It’s exciting but exhausting. We’re constantly recalculating our energy strategy to stay ahead,” she said.
Fierce Competition and Strategic Moves:
As the teams continue their journey across South Africa, the competition is now halfway and tighter than ever. Several teams like Solar Team Twente, Brunel Solar Team and Innoptus Solar Team are constantly finding themselves neck and neck – which required them to frequently adjust their strategies throughout yesterday.
The high-stakes atmosphere at this stage of the challenge has led to more calculated decisions on when to accelerate or conserve energy, making for an exhilarating challenge as the teams move closer to the finish line
“The intensity is unlike anything we’ve experienced so far,” said Vuyane Ngwenya from EVNXT. “You can feel the pressure in the air. Every team is watching each other’s moves closely, and no one wants to make a mistake.”
Educational Expo Inspires Future Innovators:
In addition to the thrilling competition, Day 4 also featured an educational expo at Upington High School , where students had the chance to learn about microbotics and solar car technology.
The expo, hosted by the Sasol Solar Challenge in partnership with Sasol, aimed to inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators.
Finishing the Day in Beautiful Augrabies:
The finish line for Day 4 brought teams to the breathtaking town of Augrabies, home to the famous Augrabies Falls. After a long day of competition, teams were welcomed by the stunning natural beauty of the area, offering a brief moment of respite before the next day’s challenge begins.
With only four days left in the competition, the competition is far from over. Teams will continue to push themselves and their vehicles to the limit as they move closer to the final finish line, knowing that every decision could determine their fate in this grueling challenge.
About The Sasol Solar Challenge:
The Sasol Solar Challenge is a biennial event that brings together teams from around the world to showcase solar-powered vehicle innovation. The event highlights the possibilities of sustainable energy while challenging participants to travel the longest distance across South Africa using only solar energy.
The challenge promotes cutting-edge technology, education, and environmental awareness.
The Sasol Solar Challenge continues through Friday, 20th September. For live news updates, please download our App – Sasol Solar Challenge on iOS or Android, or follow us on social media by using the hashtag #SasolSolarChallenge.
