The Sasol Solar Challenge is one of the toughest solar car races worldwide, where innovation meets endurance. Over eight days, teams from around the globe race solar-powered vehicles across South Africa’s diverse terrain, covering over 4,000 kilometers from Johannesburg to Cape Town. This biennial event pushes the boundaries of renewable energy technology and showcases solar energy’s potential in transportation.
The Innoptus Solar Team from Belgium is no stranger to victory in solar racing. Comprised of 13 engineering students from KU Leuven, the team has previously clinched World Champion titles in Chile, Australia, and Belgium. Their participation in the Sasol Solar Challenge marked their second foray into South Africa, and they aimed to repeat their global success by navigating challenging landscapes solely on solar power.
POYNTING Antennas proudly sponsored the Innoptus Solar Team for the 2024 challenge by providing five MIMO-3 antennas installed in their Hilux support vehicles. These antennas were essential for maintaining reliable communication and receiving real-time updates on weather and route conditions, vital for success in extreme environments.
The MIMO-3 antenna series is designed for rugged environments. The flagship MIMO-3-17 model features a 7-in-1 antenna with 4x4 MIMO LTE, 2x2 MIMO Wi-Fi, and GPS/GLONASS capabilities. Its wideband coverage ensures strong signal reception across long distances, while its durable design withstands harsh weather conditions, keeping the Innoptus team connected throughout the race.
The hard work and creativity of the Innoptus Solar Team paid off as they were the winners of the 2024 Sasol Solar Challenge. POYNTING is thrilled to have supported their journey showcasing our durable antenna solutions for challenging environments. Our MIMO-3 antennas deliver strong, uninterrupted connectivity for solar races, rugged expeditions, and industrial applications.
If you need reliable mobility antenna solutions, contact us today! Let us help you stay connected, no matter the challenge.