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Innoptus Solar Team - Innovating for a Greener Future

by Solar Team

Who We Are

We are a student team from KU Leuven, building solar cars to compete in international challenges and push the limits of technology — testing our creations in some of the world’s toughest terrains. The team was founded 21 years ago by students who set out to build Belgium’s first solar car and take on the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge. Today, we proudly continue that legacy by promoting renewable energy, inspiring interest in STEM, connecting students with industry, and advancing cutting-edge technologies.

We design and build our solar cars entirely from scratch, drawing on two decades of technical knowledge. From aerodynamics to solar panels, each part is developed in-house. It’s an intense, hands-on experience that pushes the boundaries of engineering and innovation.

This year, we proudly present Belgium’s 11th solar car, the Infinite Apollo, which will represent our country in Australia this August.

The Bridgestone World Solar Challenge

The Bridgestone World Solar Challenge is considered the world championship for solar cars, drawing top university teams from around the globe.

The competition spans over 3,000 km through the heart of the Australian Outback, from Darwin to Adelaide. For the first time, the race begins on August 24, two months earlier than usual, placing us in the middle of the Australian winter and introducing new strategic challenges.

New regulations increase the maximum allowed solar panel area by 50%, now up to 6 m², while restricting battery capacity to just 3 kWh. During the competition, teams can only drive between 8 AM and 5 PM, camping each night wherever they stop. Our goal? To cross the finish line in Adelaide first — powered only by the sun.

Introducing the Infinite Apollo

Built for the new rules and conditions, the Infinite Apollo features one of our boldest innovations yet: a dual-fin aerodynamic system.

Replacing the single rotating fin on our previous car, Apollo now has two asymmetrical fins behind the cockpit. Each has a unique profile and can be deployed based on wind conditions to harness winds like a sailboat. With adjustable height, we gain even more control — boosting efficiency and stability in the unpredictable Australian wind.

To compensate for the battery limit, we also developed our most efficient solar panel yet. In collaboration with LONGi, we integrated their next-generation cells with over 27% efficiency — technology soon to enter the commercial market.

Infinite Apollo – Key Specs

  • 5.8 meters long
  • 170 kilograms
  • Top speed: 170 km/h
  • 3 kWh battery (max allowed)
  • 300+ km battery autonomy
  • Double-fin system for adaptabiltiy and stability
  • 50% larger solar panel with +27% efficiency

Powered by RS Components

We’ve worked with RS Components for several years, and once again their tools and components played a key role in building the Infinite Apollo. From fasteners and zip ties to adhesive mounts and electrical equipment, many of our key parts came from the RS Pro range.

Thanks to RS Components, we also acquired a new power supply — now used extensively for safe, accurate testing of our electrical systems. Their reliable components and tools allows us to stay focused on what matters: building a smarter, more sustainable solar car.

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