Cruising To a More Sustainable Driving Future

In a major shakeup of the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge Cruiser Class, design judging occurred
today in Darwin, ahead of the start line – with the winner set to claim a major time advantage.

 

These solar electric cars of tomorrow, boasting practical innovation and design features you can expect to
see in our driving future, were on show today in Darwin’s Convention Centre, ready for judging by an expert
panel of adjudicators including industry leaders, BWSC alumni and faculty, climate change and renewables
experts and media representatives. The Cruiser Class was introduced to bridge the gap between high-end
technology and everyday driving practicality. Judging criteria includes interior comfort, features, and
desirability. Judges were asked to consider which cars they would be more likely to buy.

 

Despite all competing to the same set of regulations, designs varied significantly. Two teams from Italy went
head-to-head on the style count, with team Archimede introducing Thalia, a stylish sports coupe developed
with design advice from Italy’s leading race car manufacturer.

 

Cruisers will take off from the start line on Sunday, aiming to be the first across the line in
Adelaide. Unlike the single vehicle Challenger class that must travel 3,000 kilometres on the power of
sunshine alone, solar electric Cruisers carry a passenger and in addition to solar power, are able to charge
from external sources after 5pm each day.

 

Event Ambassador, Chris Selwood AM said ‘In what I expect will become a race of strategy and energy management, a significant time advantage could
prove to be game changing,’ Chris said