Futuristic solar cars on show

A host of futuristic solar powered cars will be on show in the Bay today as part of the Sasol Solar Challenge. Some of the cars are only 8cm off the ground and feature aerodynamics akin to that of aeroplanes. They were built by students from across the world, including teams from South African universities and high schools. The challenge, which takes place over eight days, was launched on Saturday in Pretoria and ends in Cape Town at the V&A Waterfront on Saturday.

The 11 cars are used as research and development vehicles in the energy, engineering, battery technology, electrical engineering and aerodynamics industries. With five South African teams competing in the Sasol Solar Challenge, the hi-tech North-West University solar car with it’s South African flag is one of the must-see cars on show. Sasol Solar Challenge director Winstone Jordaan said the aim of the event was to inspire high school pupils. The cars that are powered by the African sun will be parked at Kings Beach from 4.30pm to 6pm today and from 7am to 8am tomorrow.