Delft Solar Team Launches in American Solar Challenge from Second Starting Position

Delft Solar Team American Solar Challenge Nuna 13S solar car race Minneapolis–Amarillo

The TU Delft student team began the American Solar Challenge on 25 July, starting from the second grid spot after a strong performance at the Formula Sun Grand Prix where they completed 319 laps. Only 13 of the 44 entered teams qualified for the eight‑day, 5,000‑kilometre race that runs from Minneapolis to Amarillo, United States.

The Dutch crew races with the newly adapted Nuna 13S, a solar‑powered car upgraded with a revised electrical system, a water‑cooled motor, a new solar panel array and a metal roll cage to meet U.S. safety regulations. The team, reigning world champion after winning the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge in Australia, aims to cover the greatest distance rather than achieve the fastest finish, navigating varied terrain and unpredictable weather.

Team strategist Mike Kuiper emphasized the need for continuous energy‑use calculations and strategic adjustments throughout the endurance‑focused event.

Sources

Delft Solar Team begint American Solar Challenge vanaf de tweede plek [www.gewoonvoorhem.nl]

6 days ago

Innoptus Solar Team rukt op naar tweede plaats in American Solar Challenge: “Verschillen zijn klein" | Ring [ringtv.be]

5 days ago

Voorschotenaar jaagt met Delft Solar Team op Amerikaanse zege [sleutelstad.nl]

7 days ago