About Us
Hi DesignSpark Community! We are Durham University Solar Car - the UK's leading solar racing team. Established in 2002, the current team have the immense privilege of creating the team's 5th-generation solar car, DUSC2025.
Being 100% electric, Durham solar cars have long benefited from reliable, high-performance electrical componentry. That is why we're so excited to have the support of RS as we bring DUSC2025 to life!
The Project
We design, build and race solar cars - from concept to the racetrack, our team of around 20 undergraduate students work passionately alongside their studies to contribute to the team's success.
In 2023, we competed in the biannual Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (BWSC), a gruelling 3000km race across the Australian outback powered only by the sun. We placed 11th, becoming the highest-ranking British team in the event's history. DUSC2023 completed the event using an average of 1kW, around half the power of a hairdryer! This is all thanks to its design, focused solely on energy efficiency from its sleek aerodynamics to its proprietary, encapsulated solar cells.
Most recently, we competed in the 2024 iLumen European Solar Challenge with our 2019 BWSC challenger, Ortus. Over the year, Ortus evolved into Ortus-T, our track-spec solar car and the first Durham solar car to use dual-motors in a race. The team finished a remarkable 9th place in the 24-hour event, held at circuit Zolder in Belgium, and were subsequently crowned British national champions.
DUSC2025
Whilst our newest solar car is still under wraps for now, we can talk to the process our team has been undertaking over this past year. The team first constructed the mould from machined patterns, thus allowing us to lay up the pre-preg carbon fibre body of the car. This was followed by installation of the chassis and rollhoop, providing stiffness and protection for the driver respectively. Now the mechanical and electrical components in the car, such as the suspension, battery and solar panels are being installed to turn DUSC2025 into a true solar racing machine. The team cannot wait to reveal DUSC2025 to the world, made possible by the generous support of our partners.
Looking Ahead
The team will be looking forward to the exciting next phase of the build as we begin to test DUSC2025. Facing and overcoming the challenges associated with solar car development with the tenacity and innovation that has seen the team flourish. As well as this, the team regularly engages in local outreach events, inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders in the north east of England.
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