The history of the World Solar Challenge began in 1982 when Danish adventurer Hans Tholstrup and Australian racing driver Larry Perkins crossed the Australian continent with the solar car “Quiet Achiever,” demonstrating the effectiveness of solar power as a vehicle’s energy source. Following this achievement, the South Australian Tourism Commission became a sponsor, and the first World Solar Challenge was held in 1987 with the aim of advancing automotive technology and promoting alternatives to conventional engines.
S C H E D U L E
BWSC is the world’s premier solar car race, using solar energy as the sole power source to travel approximately 3,000 kilometers from Darwin in Northern Australia to Adelaide in the South over the course of about five days.
The race drives toward the future, carrying the dreams of young engineers from around the world. Here, we will provide you with detailed information about the event.
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Tournament
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2025.08.18
Static vehicle inspection
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2025.08.23
Dynamic vehicle inspection,
team briefing, media briefing
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2025.08.24
Official start in Darwin
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2025.08.27
Finish Line Open
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2025.08.31
Awards Ceremony
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History
For the development of automotive technology
Since 1999, the event has been held biennially, with regulations updated regularly to keep pace with technological advancements. In the 2015 event, the Cruiser Class was newly established to promote the development of solar cars with practical usability in mind.
Bridgestone has been serving as the title sponsor since the 2013 event. The company has also been supporting the teams with its innovative ENLITEN®, a base technology for product design that realizes “ultimate customization” since 2023.