Will 6 prove to be the perfect number to chase the sun

As a number – 6 has a lot going for it. Mathematically it’s perfect, culturally it can represent harmony, balance and good fortune. Western Sydney Solar Team is hoping their sixth edition solar car, UNLIMITED 6.0, can take them all the way to the podium in this year’s Bridgestone World Solar Challenge.

 

One of Australia’s strongest contenders, Western Sydney Solar Team, today lifted the wraps on their fastest solar car yet.

 

Speaking ahead of the launch, BWSC Event Ambassador, Chris Selwood AM, said Western Sydney Solar team, the only international team to win the American Solar Challenge, has a history of innovation and pushing to the next level.

 

‘They are an exciting team to watch. I’ve no doubt they can compete at the highest level, as they’ve showed in the past,’ Chris said.

 

‘I congratulate both the team and Western Sydney University on their 2025 entry. Their journey reflects a passion for the environment and commitment to a more sustainable driving future.

 

“I wish them every success on the road to Darwin and beyond,” he said.

 

Team Manager Ruairi Milligan said the UNLIMITED 6.0 is custom-built to exceed BWSC specifications in key areas, including aerodynamic performance, energy efficiency, and most importantly, reliability in challenging winter conditions – a first for the BWSC.

“Hundreds of components on UNLIMITED 6.0 were uniquely engineered to help our solar car perform at its absolute best, despite predictions of up to 20% less sunlight than previous events,” Milligan said.

 

“Our strategy focused on integrating our most efficient silicon solar panels and completely redesigning the battery management system to adapt to the expected reduction in solar input.

“One of our most unique innovations is a completely wireless steering wheel improving efficiency while also reducing weight. Our electrical system is also something special; thousands of hours have gone into designing and manufacturing the complex circuitry required to power the vehicle. On the mechanical side, we’ve developed five brand-new devices, a first for our team including sealed wheel covers and movable fairings to enhance performance.

Building the best solar car in the BWSC takes more than one great idea it takes a combination of smart systems and strong teamwork. With over 3,000 kilometres ahead of us, we’ve designed this car to be our most reliable yet, where strategy and even the smallest details make a difference.”