‘World’s first off-road solar SUV’ just drove across Morocco powered only by the sun
World’s first off-road solar SUV’ just drove across Morocco powered only by the sun
The Stella Terra, developed by students at Eindhoven University of Technology, is the world’s first off-road solar-powered car.
It recently completed a journey across Morocco, covering over 1,000 kilometers.
This SUV doesn’t require charging points because it is powered by solar panels on its roof.
When parked, the solar panels can extend out from the side for extra charging.
The Stella Terra is not only road legal but also able to travel off-road.
Its lightweight design and efficient solar panels make it less likely to get stuck on rugged terrain.
On a sunny day, the Stella Terra has a battery range of around 710 kilometers on roads and around 550 kilometers off-road.
Even in cloudy conditions, it can still travel long distances.
The team of students focused on making every element of the Stella Terra ultra-efficient.
Its aerodynamic design reduces drag, and the use of lightweight materials cuts down on weight.
The Stella Terra is designed for long-distance, multi-day journeys.
The seats fully recline to create a bed, and when stationary, the solar panels can be extended to maximize charging and provide shade.
During its journey in Morocco, the Stella Terra faced various terrains, including the rugged Rif mountain range and the sandy tracks of the Sahara Desert.
Despite a setback with the steering system, the team successfully completed the trip.
The team hopes that the Stella Terra will inspire the automotive industry to innovate faster and produce more sustainable vehicles.
Mass production of this off-road solar SUV could be a possibility in the near future.
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