Day 3 of the 2024 Sasol Solar Challenge saw teams harnessing the power of the sun with renewed determination as they compete through the challenging terrain. With two days of intense competition behind them, teams are adjusting strategies and pushing their technology to the limit in the quest for solar supremacy.
High Energy, Optimism and Innovation on Display
With clear skies, multiple loops and optimal sunlight, Day 3 offered prime conditions for teams to maximise their solar energy efficiency. Teams are now well into the competition, using the data gathered from the first two days to fine-tune their energy management strategies and push for greater distances.
“Yesterday was a great day for our team. The weather and the road conditions were good, they allowed us to do many loops.” Said Innoptus Solar Team Driver, Gilles De Baets. “We didn’t do anything differently to break the record, we stuck to our strategy.”
Yesterday, the Innoptus Solar Team broke the daily record by 672.9 kilometres, covering the most distance from 645.5 kilometres of the 2018 record.
Organiser Reflects on the Journey So Far:
Sasol Solar Challenge organisers have been impressed with the level of competition and the innovative solutions presented by the teams. “This year’s competition is one of the most exciting we’ve seen in the South African solar cars,” said Rob Walker. “Teams are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with solar technology, and Day 3 is often a turning point where we see the frontrunners emerge. It’s inspiring to see the resilience and creativity these teams bring to the challenge.”
Looking Ahead:
With several more days of the competition ahead, teams are gearing up for even tougher legs of the competition. As they move through diverse terrains, from open highways to challenging inclines, they’ll need to balance speed, energy consumption, and the reliability of their technology.
The challenge continues tomorrow, with teams expected to encounter even more complex challenges as they navigate through the final stages of the competition.
As always, the goal remains to travel the longest distance (2500 kilometres from Secunda, Mpumalanga to Cape Town) using the least amount of energy, all while pushing the limits of solar-powered innovation.
