An ANU team has launched the University’s first bid to take part in the World Solar Challenge, where teams design, build and race a solar-powered vehicle across more than 3,000 km of Australian desert from Darwin to Adelaide.
The ANU team, Sol Invictus, aims to compete in the next World Solar Challenge in October 2017.
The team launched its bid at a networking and sponsorship night, which attracted more than 140 guest including ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr, ANU staff, representatives from industry and government, and alumni.
Sol Invictus Business Manager Ed Muthiah said the program would help strengthen ties between industry, innovation and research in Canberra.
“The World Solar Challenge gives students a chance to make a real impact as Canberra moves towards Australia’s first 100 per cent renewable powered city,” Mr Muthiah. Said.
“It also puts some of our best students in direct competition with others from all over the world, giving them the best opportunity to learn and succeed.”
Vice-Chancellor Professor Brian Schmidt said he had no doubt the Sol Invictus team would do the University and their sponsors proud.
“This is such an exciting an inspiring feat and I wish everyone involved the best of luck,” Professor Schmidt said.
The team consists of all undergraduate students from different colleges including College of Engineering and Computer Science, College of Business and Economics, Law, College of Asia and the Pacific and Science.
This core group is supported by the ANU Solar Car Association (ASCA), which serves as the interface between Sol Invictus and the wider student body.
Originally published at the ANU Media Newsroom.