The University of Johannesburg (UJ) Energy Movement’s solar-powered Ilanga II car, will be the first of its kind to cross into Namibia and Botswana on June 18.
This formed part of the 2015 African Solar Drive, covering 4 160 km, which aside from the adventure of the drive, sought to be an educational roadtrip, raising awareness and promoting green technology.
By showcasing Ilanga II and hosting public lectures, the UJ Energy Movement would educate schools, researchers and people interested in pursuing a career in the fields of science and engineering, specifically relating to alternative energy.
The lectures would take place in Kimberley, Upington, Windhoek and Gaborone.
Engineering students would also be collecting and analysing data to optimise the performance of the vehicle on the trip.
“The UJ Energy Movement programme was established in 2010 to help promote skills development, energy conservation and sustainability through technology innovation. We are really excited to be taking Ilanga II on its longest trip yet and introducing the programme to our neighbours across Africa,” Mechanical Engineering Science lecturer and UJ Energy Movement programme manager Nickey Janse van Rensburg said.
The solar-powered electric car was awarded the Technology and Innovation Award at the 2014 Sasol Solar Challenge and was one of the most advanced solar-powered vehicles produced by UJ students and industry partners to date.
UJ Energy Movement programme team and technology manager Warren Hunter explained that there were “a lot” of logistical arrangements behind the 2015 African Solar Drive.
“A team of engineers and academics has been involved in the technical planning of this 12-day road trip to ensure operations run as smoothly as possible.
Mitsubishi is the official transport partner of the ground patrol team.