World solar challenge marks 40 years of innovation in 2027
The Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (BWSC) will celebrate a major milestone in 2027, marking 40 years of innovation, engineering excellence and global leadership in sustainable mobility.
The event will run from 22 to 29 August 2027, with the release of the new event regulations signalling the start of preparations for what is expected to be one of the most significant editions in the event’s history.
The event, which began in 1987 and has always started in Darwin, takes teams on a 3,000‑kilometre endurance adventure through the heart of Australia. Held every 2 years, the BWSC attracts competitors from around the world who race to be the first to cross the finish line in vehicles powered by green energy. The 2027 edition will mark the event’s 18th crossing of the continent, reinforcing its status as the world’s most challenging and influential solar endurance competition.
The 2027 regulations continue the BWSC’s long‑standing focus on self‑sufficiency and environmental energy capture. The Toyota Challenger Class will again prioritise solar collection and strategic energy management, with teams working within 6 square metres of solar collector and 3 kilowatt hours of storage. This framework encourages teams to push the boundaries of efficiency, aerodynamics and environmental energy harvesting.
In the Cruiser Class, the 2027 regulations introduce new incentives designed to reward real‑world design innovation. Teams demonstrating strong potential for future mainstream mobility will receive a time advantage at Katherine, strengthening the event’s role as a testbed for the next generation of sustainable vehicle design.
To honour the event’s 40‑year legacy, 2 new classes have been introduced. The 40th Anniversary Historic Class will provide a unique opportunity for past BWSC vehicles to be showcased in Darwin, Adelaide and along the route, celebrating the pioneering teams and technologies that have shaped the event since 1987. The new Innovation Class will invite teams, alumni, individuals and organisations to present forward‑looking concepts that explore the future of sustainable mobility, including emerging energy sources, intelligent systems, advanced materials and integrated design solutions.
The 2027 anniversary program will also highlight the achievements of BWSC alumni whose innovations have shaped global sustainability, engineering and clean‑energy industries. The return of the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge is proudly supported by the NT Government through Tourism and Events NT, ensuring Territorians and visitors can once again experience a world‑class, internationally recognised event in the Top End.
Expressions of interest
Expressions of Interest are now open, with applications for entry opening on 5 June, aligning with World Environment Day.
For more information, go to the World Solar Challenge website.
