The final preparations are well underway at the Red Star Raceway, where the second edition of the ground-breaking Bridgestone Ilanga Solar Challenge is being held.
Five teams are participating in this year's event with two competing under the Cruiser Class, a category designed to accommodate four-wheeled vehicles with occupancy space for two or more people (one of which is the pilot).
The two vehicles going head-to-head under this category are from Team EVNXT and Team UniSolar. EVNXT is a group of engineers from Secunda who designed a stylish near replica of the iconic Lotus 7, called the Bumblebee.
The “Bumblebee” will be taking on the “Tiger”, a vehicle from Team UniSolar. The UniSolar Team represents the University of South Africa (UNISA) and is comprised of dedicated individuals with a shared passion for sustainable technology.
Although Tiger will be debuting at the 2023 Bridgestone Ilanga Cup, it has already taken part in the 2022 Sasol Solar Challenge – as a lone cruiser-class contender.
The two vehicles along with three others that will be muscling each other in the Challenger Class division are undergoing the scrutineering process today – to ensure that they meet all the set standards and adhere with all regulations, particularly safety protocols.
Under the Challenger class, last year’s winning team TUT Solar Team from the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), will be hoping to retain their title when they face Mpumalanga SolarFlair's and Genuine JV from HTS John Vorster high school pioneers.
The three participants have already cut their teeth in the challenge, having taken part in the 2022 Sasol Solar Challenge.
This year’s event which kicks off tomorrow (4 October 2023) promises to bring an even more dynamic and breath-taking experience from diverse groups.
After passing the rigorous scrutineering process, the teams will hit the racetrack to test vehicle handling and overall performance ahead of tomorrow's grueling 12-hour challenge.
-ENDS-
For event media enquiries, please contact:
Emma-maryn Gouws
+27 79 219 0287