The world’s longest solar car race has started in Darwin.
Thirty-four teams from 17 countries have begun the 3000-kilometre Bridgestone World Solar Challenge to Adelaide.
Germany’s Sonnenwagen Aachen earned pole position in the Toyota Challenger Class with a 1:52.51 lap at Hidden Valley, leading the field away on Sunday morning.
Close behind are Top Dutch from the Netherlands in Green Falcon, and Brunel in Nuna 13, setting up a European showdown at the front of the pack.
The biennial race draws teams of students and researchers from leading universities, tasked with building solar-powered vehicles capable of crossing Australia’s outback under extreme conditions.
Cars must perform not just in speed but in aerodynamics, energy efficiency, and endurance, reflecting real-world challenges for renewable mobility.
Innovation in vehicle design has sharpened this year’s competition.
Hungary’s John Von Neumann University revealed a shark-fin stabiliser that adjusts automatically to wind conditions. Belgian champions Innoptus Solar Team are running dual asymmetrical fins, while Dutch rivals Brunel unveiled a swordfin to harness crosswinds. The University of Michigan’s Millennium features a robotic retractable wing that can provide forward thrust.
“The highly innovative Sonnenwagen team has shown exceptional teamwork, hard work and attention to detail,” Event Ambassador Chris Selwood said.
“I expect to see them in the mix of this hotly contested, highly competitive field, with any number of teams capable of crossing the finish first in Adelaide.”
Australia’s Western Sydney University, which finished in the top ten in 2023, is chasing again with its Unlimited 6.0, starting fifth on the grid.
In the Cruiser Class, which focuses on practical solar-powered vehicles for mainstream mobility, Estonia’s Solaride topped the design judging, earning a 28-minute advantage at Katherine. Australia’s Sunswift 7 placed second, with Italy’s Onda Solare third.
Selwood said this year’s field is the most competitive in memory.
“There are many contenders for the finish line this year. Adding to the excitement this year, is the timing, with the race being held for the first time in an Australian winter,” he said.
Cars are expected to reach Adelaide later this week, depending on conditions.
A live tracking map, and more details, are accessible here.