RS Components partnered with The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) for the Sasol Solar Challenge ten-year anniversary race. With the experience gained in previous races, the team was determined to reduce the gap to the world’s leading teams through investigation and application of the best designs.
In an interview, team leader, Johannes de Vries, said the team would manufacture most of its mechanical components at the institution, and believes that they are now better equipped and more knowledgeable about the requirements and expectations of the race.
The TUT team with SunChaser 3.
“This year is definitely different, because of the more demanding regulations in terms of the solar panel size reduction,” he explained. “Now, there is more focus on reducing the weight of the car since there is less energy available. It will be smaller in size and more aerodynamic compared to previous models. We also experienced that the more we work on the design the more we gain better clarity and understanding of how to improve the design. I am confident that we are well resourced for this year’s race and believe that we are well placed to challenge the other teams.
RS Components is focused on inspiring the next generation of engineers by supporting university programmes that are aimed at increasing an interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers, and creating an ecosystem where innovation and engineering talent can thrive. The TUT Solar Car project encourages engineering students to experiment with innovative new technologies and broaden their knowledge with practical skills that tackle real-world challenges.
RS sponsored various components and tools to the TUT team to help construct and get SunChaser 3 on the road. “We’re extremely proud of the calibre of the engineers and technicians that are being developed in South Africa,” said Brian Andrew, managing director of RS Components in sub-Saharan Africa. “Our role is to give them access to the tools, components and resources they require to design, build and maintain the innovations of tomorrow. We wish the TUT team all the best for the future.”
Reinstatement opportunity for ECSA registration
News
In 2023 the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) announced a special opportunity for engineers in South Africa to reinstate their registration status if it had been cancelled. This exclusive offer is available until the end of August 2024.
Read more...Africa Automation Indaba 2026
News
A bold new chapter in Africa’s industrial evolution begins with the launch of the Africa Automation Indaba, set to take place from 13 to 14 May 2026 at the prestigious Radisson Collection Hotel in Cape Town.
Read more...EtherCAT Technology Group holds another Plug Fest
News
Recently, the EtherCAT Technology Group (ETG) once again invited its members to a Plug Fest, this time specifically targeting developers and manufacturers of devices with Safety over EtherCAT (FSoE) functionality.
Read more...BMG powers up at Nampo 2025
News
The BMG team was highly prominent at this year’s Nampo agricultural show, held near Bothaville recently. This prestigious event, which is one of the largest agricultural exhibitions in the southern hemisphere, is a highlight for manufacturers and suppliers of farming equipment, as well as for farmers, families and the entire community.
Read more...Epiroc rocks youth development programmes
News
Epiroc is not just building equipment - it’s building futures. Through its dynamic internship and learner programmes, the mining equipment and services specialist is shaping South Africa’s next generation of skilled professionals, equipping them with real-world experience, industry knowledge and the confidence to launch successful careers.
Read more...Schneider Electric drives innovation in Africa Schneider Electric South Africa
News
Schneider Electric has officially launched its first Innovation Hub on the African continent, coinciding with the opening of its new regional headquarters in Midrand, South Africa.
Read more...100 years of safety leadership
News
DEKRA Industrial and its adult-based education and occupational skills training division, the Institute of Learning (IOL) will showcase a milestone at A-OSH 2025, as the company celebrates DEKRA Global’s 100 years of safety leadership.
Read more...Drakenstein Municipality aces Schneider Electric’s Sustainability Impact Award Schneider Electric South Africa
News
Drakenstein Municipality in the Western Cape has won a Sustainability Impact Award for Schneider Electric’s Anglophone Africa region, shining the spotlight on its unwavering commitment to sustainable leadership and its forward-thinking approach to ensuring a sustainable future for its coming generations.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version