The Delft Solar Team, a small group of 14 students from Delft University, is making its debut at the 2026 Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix and American Solar Challenge. The team is flying in from the Netherlands with their world champion solar car, Nuna 13S.
The team's roots date back to 2001 when they were founded by Wubbo Ockels, the first Dutch astronaut. Since then, they have competed in numerous international competitions, including the World Solar Challenge, and have experienced both success and setbacks along the way.
In 2019, the team was leading the pack at the Australian competition when their car caught fire and burned down near the finish line. The following year, the race was scrapped due to COVID, and the team finished third in the next edition.
However, in 2025, the team finally broke their drought with a first-place win at the Australian competition, which is seen as a phoenix story for solar car racing.
The Nuna 13S car that will be competing in Minnesota is an upgraded version of the previous year's model, Nuna 13. The team has refined the car with new solar cells and aerodynamic improvements to make it more efficient and competitive.
According to Rosa Van Wijngaarden, the team's PR representative, their mission is not only to compete but also to inspire the future generation on sustainability and innovation.
The team's approach to engineering and teamwork is unique, with each member taking a full gap year off from their studies to work on the solar car built from scratch. This collaborative effort has allowed them to develop a well-engineered team that can tackle complex challenges.
Despite the setbacks, the team remains committed to their mission and continues to push the boundaries of sustainable energy. Their participation in the American Solar Challenge is a testament to their dedication and passion for innovation.
As the competition heats up in Minnesota, the Delft Solar Team will be looking to make a statement with their refined Nuna 13S car and inspire others to follow in their footsteps towards a more sustainable future.
The success of the Dutch Solar Team highlights the potential for collegiate teams to drive innovation in sustainable energy.
