EVolocity isn’t the only mobility challenge Bridgestone supports. One of the most iconic events in the
world, the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (BWSC) happens in Australia every two years, and has
had the global support of Bridgestone since 2013.
This year saw reigning champions Innoptus Solar Team from Belgium claim back-to-back honours in
the outright ‘Challenger Class’ – completing the 3,000km journey from Darwin, Northern Territory,
to Adelaide, South Australia in 34H:04M:41S – averaging an impressive 88.2km/h.
In the ‘Cruiser Class’, which bridges the gap between prototype vehicles and the electric vehicles on
the roads, it was Australian team UNSW Sunswift that took the top prize for the first time.
Like in EVolocity, BWSC teams from all around the world design and build their own cars to tackle
the challenge in the most efficient way possible. This year’s event also saw Bridgestone developed
new, bespoke tyres for the BWSC featuring ENLITEN, the company’s new base technology for
product design.
ENLITEN technology elevates conventional tyres by enhancing environmental performance while
also exceeding the customer and market demands in product performance. The 2023 BWSC was the
first time ENLITEN technology has been used in a competitive environment.
The ENLITEN-equipped tyres supplied to the BWSC were designed to help teams meet the extreme
demands during the 3,000km event, including low rolling resistance, wear and weight, and
durability.
Bridgestone customised tyres based on the needs from the teams to demonstrate the new ENLITEN
technology and exceptional capabilities, while showcasing how sustainable tyres can be with a
recycled and renewable material ratio (MCN – Material Circularity Number) of 63% – more than
double the number of the previous generation solar car tyre.
For Bridgestone, the BWSC is a demonstration of the values of the Bridgestone E8 Commitment –
energy, efficiency, extension, emotion, ecology and empowerment. It highlights what can be
achieved through innovative thinking challenging convention.
To learn more about the BWSC and Bridgestone’s involvement, visit: World Solar Challenge |
Bridgestone Australia
