Tshwane University of Technology

2026 Sasol Solar Challenge Team Profile

Team Name	Tshwane University of Technology
Car Name	Sunchaser 4
Class/Category	Challenger
Country	South Africa
Newcomer/Veteran Participant	Veteran Participant

About Team

The TUT Team is made up of students from the Tshwane University of Technology, ranging from first-year level to PhD candidates. The multidisciplinary team includes students from the Industrial Design, Marketing, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, and Electrical Engineering departments, bringing together a diverse range of skills and expertise. The students are mentored by academic staff members from these same departments, fostering collaboration between experienced professionals and emerging innovators.

About Vehicle

SunChaser IV is a fourth-generation solar-electric vehicle developed by the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Solar Team as a technology demonstration and research platform for sustainable mobility. The single-seat vehicle features a lightweight carbon-fibre composite structure, high-efficiency solar panels, an electric drivetrain, advanced energy-management systems, and ultra-low aerodynamic drag. Designed and built by TUT staff and students, SunChaser IV serves as a testbed for innovative technologies in renewable energy, electric propulsion, vehicle efficiency, battery management, telemetry, and intelligent control systems.

Why We Race

We participate to give students the opportunity to put theory to practise.
Participating in the Sasol Solar Challenge creates massive sponsor exposure.
The challenge is an opportunity to support other teams to get ready and participate in the event.
Participating in the event provides :Bragging rights” when showcasing the solar car at events.

Objectives For The 2026 Sasol Solar Challenge

Complete the challenge safely, with the wellbeing of team members, officials and the public as our highest priority.
Improve upon our previous vehicle performance, efficiency and reliability through data-driven engineering and continuous learning.
Provide students with meaningful hands-on experience in real-world engineering design, testing and project management.
Promote renewable energy, sustainable transportation and STEM education through active community engagement and outreach.
Demonstrate professionalism, teamwork and good sportsmanship throughout the challenge.