Dutch solar car still in the lead in world championship
After three days, the Delft-based Brunel Solar Team remains in the lead in the World Cup solar race.
Published on August 27, 2025
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After three days, the Brunel Solar Team from Delft remains in the lead in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge in Australia, despite technical challenges. Their solar car, Nuna 13, has now crossed the border from the Northern Territory to South Australia. They are halfway through the more than 3,000-kilometer route.
The race started off excitingly, with the Innoptus Solar Team close behind the Brunel Solar Team. On the way to Alice Springs, a tactical duel ensued. By choosing the left lane at busy intersections, Brunel was able to accelerate faster when the light turned green and take a shorter turn, allowing them to maintain a lead over their competitors.
Changing climate
As the race moves further south, the changing climate becomes noticeable. A thick cloud cover and cooler temperatures made the race extra challenging for all solar cars.
Close competition
During the race, the canopy fin was used several times to maintain energy efficiency under changing conditions. This is an aerodynamic feature that provides an advantage in crosswinds. Its shape and placement create a so-called dart effect: the solar car stays better in the direction of travel and swerves less in strong crosswinds.
An unexpected tire change at Innoptus caused Solar Team Twente to temporarily drop to second place. With two race days still to go, the top teams remain closely bunched together.
The Brunel Solar Team has been participating in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge since 1999 and has won seven world titles during that period.
