Durham University Secures Top Ten Finish in Belgium with ENLITEN Tyres on Solar Car
Durham University’s solar car team has achieved an impressive ninth-place finish at the iLumen European Solar Challenge (iESC) in Belgium, with their vehicle powered by Bridgestone’s ENLITEN tyre technology. Held at Circuit Zolder on 21st September, the 24-hour race saw the team’s solar car, ‘Ortus-T,’ complete 225 laps without a single tyre-wear-related pit stop, a testament to the durability and performance of Bridgestone’s advanced tyre solution.
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The iESC is Europe’s only 24-hour endurance race for solar-powered vehicles, providing a challenging platform for showcasing sustainable and efficient mobility solutions. Competing against 18 teams from across Europe, the Durham University team strategically maximised their vehicle’s energy efficiency to achieve their top-ten goal.
Bridgestone’s ENLITEN tyres played a pivotal role in Ortus-T’s performance, providing exceptional rolling resistance that allowed the car to travel longer distances between charges. The advanced tyre technology, crafted with a focus on sustainability, is comprised of 63% recycled and renewable materials, such as recovered carbon black, recycled steel, and organic fibres.
Commenting on the achievement, Durham University Solar Car Head of Business Louise Conn said: “We’re all over the moon with the result, which wouldn’t have been possible with the performance of Bridgestone’s tyres, which allowed us to keep going for longer between charges. A top 10 finish was our goal, so to finish ninth amongst a field of 18 cars – all designed by some of the most talented teams in Europe – is something to be proud of.”
The Ortus-T solar car boasts a carbon fibre and Kevlar chassis and is equipped with 4m² silicon solar panels. Designed initially for the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, the vehicle has been further modified for circuit racing, incorporating a centre-locking bolt system for quicker tyre changes and dual motors for enhanced cornering acceleration.
The team’s commitment to sustainable and innovative engineering has been supported by Bridgestone, with Vice President of Bridgestone North Region Andrea Manenti noting: “The Durham University team never ceases to amaze us. To complete the iLumen European Solar Challenge is an incredible achievement, on the back of their World Solar Challenge success in 2023.”
Durham University’s accomplishments underscore Bridgestone’s E8 Commitment, which aims for a carbon-neutral mobility society by focusing on energy efficiency, emotion, and excellence. This race highlighted the energy efficiency and durability of ENLITEN tyres, which consumed the equivalent power of boiling a kettle while delivering top-tier performance.
As Bridgestone continues to innovate, the partnership with Durham University stands as a prime example of how collaboration can drive the development of sustainable solutions for future mobility.
