A team from the Solar Energy group at Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands has unveiled a highly efficient solar-powered vehicle to compete in the World Solar Challenge. The "Stella Vita" vehicle will embark on a journey of 4,000 kilometers across Europe later this month. According to the science and technology site "New Atlas," the new vehicle concept resembles a solar-powered mobile home.
The vehicle features a surface area of solar panels measuring 8.8 square meters, which harvest energy for a 6 kWh lithium-ion battery, allowing it to travel at speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour. When parked, the vehicle can extend slide-out panels to a total area of 17.5 square meters. Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with a curved roof that allows the driver and passenger to stand and move inside, cook, or shower, with all energy needs, including the electric drive system, expected to be met solely by the solar system. Thus, there will be no reliance on charging infrastructure along the travel route.
Inside the cabin, the driver can monitor the energy status via a central display, and there is space for a central console for mobile Bluetooth. In addition to the doors for the driver and passenger, there are two large opposing doors behind the cabin that open for light and air, while the folding panels provide some shade outside.
In addition to the integrated kitchen, the vehicle's interior includes L-shaped seating with built-in storage, a small dining table, shelves, cabinets, and a sleeping area. There is space for a television and coffee-making facilities, but no mention of integrated toilets was made.
The team reported that in bright sunlight, the vehicle can cover distances of up to 730 kilometers in one day, and a fully charged battery can achieve up to 600 kilometers of nighttime driving. Team members will commence their European tour on September 19, starting from the Netherlands towards Brussels in the south, reaching Tarifa in Spain, with the race expected to conclude on October 15.
