| Team Name | NWU Solar Eagles |
| Car Name | Naledi2.0SE |
| Class | Challenger |
| Country | South Africa |
| Newcomer / Veteran Participant | Veteran Participant |
About Team
The North-West University (NWU) Solar Eagles is a multidisciplinary group of students and staff from the Faculty of Engineering who design, build and race ultra‑efficient solar‑powered vehicles in national and international endurance events. Since 2012 the project has served as a flagship platform for hands‑on engineering education, renewable‑energy research and community outreach, showcasing NWU’s commitment to innovative, energy‑efficient transport technologies and inspiring the next generation of engineers across South Africa.
About Vehicle
Naledi2.0SE is a lightweight, ultra‑efficient, single‑seater solar racer developed by the Faculty of Engineering as a testbed for advanced aerodynamics, composite structures and solar‑electric drivetrains. The car features a sailplane‑inspired body, composite chassis and a unique rotating solar array that boosts energy capture, contributing to its Structural Design Award at the 2022 Sasol Solar Challenge and demonstrating NWU’s capability to deliver robust, innovative solutions for sustainable mobility.
Why We Race
We race to push the boundaries of renewable‑energy technology and to give NWU students and staff real‑world experience in designing, building and operating cutting‑edge solar vehicles. Each race is a moving classroom and outreach platform, inspiring school learners, communities and future engineers to pursue science, technology and sustainable mobility.
Objectives For The 2026 Sasol Solar Challenge
- Deliver a reliable, competitive race as NWU’s comeback after a four‑year hiatus.
- Rework the vehicle into a refined “Special Edition” by updating key mechanical and electrical systems.
- Enhance the telemetry system for richer data, smarter strategy and improved on‑road performance.
- Use the solar car as the flagship platform to promote the NWU Faculty of Engineering, especially the Electromechanical Program.
- Surpass NWU’s 2022 Sasol Solar Challenge performance and build towards future international events.
Connect With Us
- Website: https://engineering.nwu.ac.za/solarcar
- Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/Ingenieurswese
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nwuengineering/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mynwu
