These Dutch students are bringing a world champion solar car to the 2026 Electrek American Solar Challenge
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- Delft Solar Team will compete in the 2026 Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix and American Solar Challenge in Minnesota, marking its first U.S. appearance with a 14‑member student crew.
- Nuna 13S is the upgraded version of the 2025 champion car Nuna 13, featuring entirely new solar cells for the upcoming race.
- Wubbo Ockels – the first Dutch astronaut – joined the program in 2001 on the condition that the team win the World Solar Challenge, which they accomplished that year.
- Rosa Van Wijngaarden leads PR for the team, which takes a full gap year off studies to design and build the solar car, aiming to inspire future generations about sustainability and innovation.
- Australia was the site of the team’s early 3,000 km record crossing and a 2019 fire that destroyed their car, underscoring the program’s resilience and comeback with a 2025 victory.
Why it matters: The 14‑member Delft Solar Team and the 2026 American Solar Challenge audience gain a world‑champion solar car, showcasing cutting‑edge tech that drives more university solar‑car programs and attracts industry investment in sustainable transport.
