Brightest innovators return to NT for World Solar Challenge

5 June 2023

The largest solar challenge in the world, the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, is returning to the Territory, as another event drawing people from across the globe to experience our lifestyle and landscape in its entirety.

The challenge will see more than 1000 people making up 43 teams from 23 countries set to race the 3000km stretch from Darwin to Adelaide in October, with teams from universities around the world descending on Darwin, before taking off down the Stuart Highway on 22 October in hi-tech vehicles designed to be powered only by the sun.

The challenge is supported by the Territory Labor Government through Northern Territory Major Events Company and returns after a four-year hiatus due to Covid-19 impacts. The event first ran in 1987.

Teams will compete in one of three categories; Challenger Class – a competitive race; Cruiser Class – which features cars designed for practicality; and Adventure Class – a non-competitive race.

Belgian team Innoptus Solar Team, winner of the Challenger Class in 2019, will return this year to contest their title against 32 teams, while the Cruiser Class will see 11 teams from nine countries compete.

Darwin locals and visitors will be able to see cutting-edge technology in action, with a range of activities to be organised in the week leading up to the start of the race.

The public will be able to view scrutineering on the track at Hidden Valley, where teams will do a hot lap to determine their start positions. More details will be released closer to the event.

People are also encouraged to gather at Darwin’s State Square on 22 October to cheer on the teams as they embark on the 3000km journey.

Quotes from Minister for Major Events Paul Kirby:

“Traversing Australia’s outback, across some of the most remote country in the world, the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge offers communities a unique opportunity to see firsthand the world’s most efficient electric cars and meet the teams behind the scenes.

“The incredible innovation, technology and career opportunities will be on show through school and industry engagement and key activities in Darwin, and then on route as teams make their way south towards Adelaide.”

Quotes from Event Director, Chris Selwood AM:

“As consumers increasingly look to more sustainable options to petrol driven cars and governments strive for solutions to fight climate change and reduce emissions, this event raises awareness to the possibilities of not just what could be, but what can be achieved now.

“This year we will welcome first time countries of Estonia and Romania, international ‘top guns’, new and emerging teams and a strong home-grown contingent, with eight Australian teams to fly the Aussie flag.”

Northern Territory Government