Sustainable future in both mobility and energy through innovative, energy-efficient solar vehicles
Bob Van Ginkel, technical manager
Solar Team Eindhoven is a dynamic team comprising 22 current students from the Technische Universiteit Eindhoven. Their mission is to showcase the liberating and enriching potential of clean energy in various aspects of life.
Established in 2012, Solar Team Eindhoven has consistently pushed the boundaries of solar-powered vehicle design. Their journey began with the unveiling of the first solar-powered family car, Stella, in 2013. Subsequent years saw the creation of Stella Lux in 2015, Stella Vie in 2017, and Stella Era in 2019. Notably, they have secured the title of four-time world champions in the Cruiser Class of the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge.
As a team of 22 enthusiastic and ambitious students from the Eindhoven University of Technology, Solar Team Eindhoven envisions a future where life is powered by the sun. With the freedom and power that come with being a student team, they embrace innovation without the constraints of market demands. This unique position allows them to initiate the design process from scratch, unburdened by preconceptions, and bridge the gap between technological innovation and daily life. Their focus is not only on mobility but also on inspiring society to transition to a more sustainable future in both mobility and energy through innovative, energy-efficient solar vehicles.
Solar Team Eindhoven aims to shift the paradigm from energy consumption to energy production in mobility. By integrating solar panels into vehicles, they seek to make vehicles independent of traditional charging infrastructure. The team firmly believes that the key to a sustainable future in mobility lies within the vehicles themselves.
Their latest development is Stella Terra, the world's first off-road solar car. This innovative vehicle is designed to navigate not only on paved roads but also on rugged terrain, providing a sustainable and independent solution for off-road enthusiasts. Stella Terra's solar panels on the roof enable it to harness solar energy, achieving complete independence in a sustainable manner, even in remote locations. With a top speed of 145 kilometers per hour, a weight of only 1200 kilograms, and a range of 630 kilometers on a sunny day, Stella Terra represents a practical and eco-conscious solution for those seeking adventures off the beaten path.
Solar Team Eindhoven continues to lead the way in redefining the future of mobility, demonstrating that cars can be a part of the solution to environmental challenges. Their commitment to sustainable innovation exemplifies their belief that creating a sustainable future requires proactive and transformative initiatives.
