Bühler’s Solar Energy Racers take second place in Sasol Solar Challenge
Bühler’s Solar Energy Racers have taken second place in the Challenger Class at the 2026 Sasol Solar Challenge, completing more than 1 518 km across South Africa in an eight-day test of solar-powered mobility, engineering efficiency and endurance.
The team, supported by Bühler in collaboration with Swiss partners Empa and FISBA, crossed the finish line in Cape Town on 17 September after tackling demanding roads, changing weather conditions and the logistical and technical challenges of a long-distance solar race.
“Second place is a result built on precision engineering, teamwork and relentless belief in what solar-powered mobility can achieve,” comments Markus Hofer, VP Business Development Advanced Materials at Bühler Group.
“The Sasol Solar Challenge brings together so many of the technologies and capabilities that are shaping the future of mobility and energy, while giving young technical talent the opportunity to apply their skills in a real-world environment,” adds Hofer. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) won the 2026 Sasol Solar Challenge with their SunChaser 4 vehicle, completing 2 369.2 km.
From apprentice training to the open road
The Solar Energy Racers project brings together apprentices, technicians and experienced project mentors from the participating organisations. The multidisciplinary team includes mechanical, electrical and automation apprentices from different training years, who work alongside experienced engineers and project leaders. This teamwork provides another opportunity to turn technical theory into practical experience.
At the heart of the project is SER 6, a streamlined, single-seat solar racer designed around endurance, low energy consumption and aerodynamic efficiency. The vehicle is based on the existing SER4 platform, retaining its lightweight structure and major components while incorporating upgrades to critical systems.
For Bühler, the project represents far more than a motorsport challenge. Since the Solar Energy Racers initiative began in 2011, more than 180 young staff members have participated in the projects, many of whom have gone on to develop within the Bühler organisation.
Engineering for a more sustainable future
The race provided a practical demonstration of technologies that are increasingly important to Bühler’s Advanced Materials business, including photovoltaics, batteries, coatings and adhesives, as well as precision aluminum components.
“The wind, the sun, the roads – every kilometer counts,” said Aaron Lumpert, Apprentice at Bühler and member of the Solar Energy Racers team. “But it is also incredible to see what a car can do powered by nothing but sunlight.”
The team’s journey was not without challenges. Preparing the vehicle across two countries and several organisations required extensive coordination, while shipping delays through Durban threatened to derail the project before the race even began. Support from the Swiss Embassy, Bühler’s local organisation, freight forwarders and the event organisers helped the team get the vehicle to the starting line. Solving all these obstacles resulted in the team clinching the Innovation Award.
A platform for the next generation
The Sasol Solar Challenge is more than a race. It is a real-world training ground where young talent applies engineering, teamwork and resilience under demanding conditions. “Developing our talent, both technically and personally, is in the DNA of all three partners,” says Hofer.
For Bühler, the Solar Energy Racers project turns apprenticeship excellence into practical innovation, helping equip the next generation to shape a more sustainable future.
