World Solar Challenge begins

World Solar Challenge begins

The eleventh edition of the World Solar Challenge in Australia has begun. The counterpart of the DONG Energy Solar Challenge has 44 cars powered by solar-energy. The race started from Darwin in the north. All the teams have to travel 3,000 kilometers to the south, in Adelaide. Two Dutch teams from the technical universities of Delft and Twente also feature in the challenge.

The battle for pole position during qualifications was a Dutch affair. Technical University of Twente outlasted the team from Delft by only 0.00.03. The team from Twente finished first and qualified by a fasted lap time of 2.02.20 minutes and an average speed of over 85 kilometer per hour.

After the first stage Japanese team Tokai is leader in the race, followed by the team from Delft. The first stage was shortened due to a bushfire near Barrow Creek.  The organization is monitoring the situation. Klik here to follow your team in the race.

You can also follow the Dutch teams on Twitter:
TU Twente
TU Delft
Wubbo Ockels