Review BWSC 2023 - How do you feel when looking back on this year's race?

It was a competition where we not only honed our engineering skills but also acquired the management abilities necessary to thrive on the world stage. Each individual had the opportunity for growth. When parts broke down during the race, we could borrow parts from teams abroad. We were able to engage in warm exchanges with participants from around the world who had gathered toward a common goal. Even after the race, we continue to communicate with teams worldwide to share technical knowledge and team-building activities.

How important are tyres for a solar car? And what do you think about BS ENLITEN® tyre?
Is there any tyre performance you would expect for 2025?

The solar car presents a significant portion of tire rolling loss due to its highly aerodynamic profile as a specialized vehicle. Moreover, it undergoes a grueling 3000km race through the harsh deserts of Australia. In addressing these challenges, ENLITEN®, which boasts exceptionally high renewable resources and environmental performance, demonstrated ultra-low fuel consumption while satisfying durability requirements of over 3000km. It also exhibited high grip performance in wet conditions, ensuring safe driving for student drivers. While it's customary in races to change tires daily, the Kogakuin University team could drive through the entire 3000km race without a single tire change. I believe it's an impressive feat of technology to complete the entire race using just one set of tires.

Resolution for BWSC 2025 - Please share your target goal for next year's race. How do you plan to improve this year's machine?

We will participate the BWSC2025 with strengthened organizational capabilities to conquer the grueling 3000km race through technological advancements and teamwork. On the technological front, there have been innovations in solar cells and battery technologies. We will employ new materials and optimization techniques to produce vehicles that are not only safer but also more high-performing. Additionally, we will introduce information technology (IT) to enhance our energy management information strategy.

Message to the future teammates aspiring to compete BWSC 2025

The race to cover 3000km is incredibly demanding. However, the sense of achievement, the lessons learned through overcoming it, and the experiences gained are invaluable. Challenging the world alongside members who share the same goal and love for engineering is not an easy feat, but above all, it's enjoyable. Let's enjoy the race together on Australian soil.