On 18 June the University of Johannesburg (UJ) Energy Movement Programme kicks off their 2015 African Solar Drive.
According to UJ’s public relations officer (PRO) Lika Tolken, the drive can also be explained as a sub-Saharan adventure as the solar-powered electric car called Ilanga II, will travel from Johannesburg all the way to Gaborone in Botswana.
“During the 4 160km trip the engineering students will also be collecting and analysing data to optimise the performance of the vehicle,” said Tolken.
She explained that the focus of the trip is to raise awareness about green technology and the team will host a couple of public lectures along the route to inform youngsters of this futuristic technology.
“By showcasing Ilanga II and hosting public lectures, the UJ Energy Movement aims to share their experiences with schools, students, researchers and people who are interested in pursuing a career in the fields of science and engineering. The lectures will take place in Kimberley, Upington, Windhoek and Gaborone.”
UJ Energy Movement Programme manager Nickey Janse van Rensburg said, “The programme was established in 2010 and we are really excited to be taking Ilanga II on its longest trip yet, and introducing the programme to our neighbours across Africa.”
She added that spectators along the route can look forward to seeing the solar powered car in action and take a look at it a bit closer at specific pit-stops along the route.
“This car was awarded the Technology and Innovation Award in 2014 at the Sasol Solar Challenge and it is one of the most advanced
solar-powered vehicles produced by UJ students to date,” said Janse van Rensburg.
“A skilled team of engineers and academics has been involved in the technical planning of this 12-day road trip to make sure operations run as smoothly as possible,” concluded team and technology manager of the programme, Warren Hurter.
Details: www.uj.ac.za
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