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Rabat – Seven years ago, an innovative idea of making a solar-powered car was shared among students of the National School of Mineral Industry (ENSMR). After many years of research, application and testing, Mines Rabat Solar Team from ENSMR, brought the eco-friendly car “Eleadora II” into the spotlight.
Mines Rabat Solar Team consists of 16 Moroccan engineering students who share a passion for research and innovations that focus on creating solar-powered vehicles to compete at national and international competitions.
The early stages to build “Eleadora II” or “Gift of the Sun” in Greek, began with a study and design phase before starting the construction process, which was taken over by new students over time for better results.
Iman Aoua, the head of communication of the team told Middle-East news outlet Sky News Arabia that, “The innovation of this car was not easy, it took a lot of time and effort, and continuous work to develop the vehicle and to meet all the technical standards that allow it to participate in international competitions.”
Morocco World News (MWN) also spoke to Aoua in July, where she explained, “We used inventive technologies; the complete shell is made of carbon fiber. Other notable features are its outstanding engine, considerable autonomy, aerodynamic properties, and its durable electric mechanism.”
The vehicle has a speed of 120 kilometers per hour and uses an eco-friendly carbon fiber in its manufacture. The team have covered the car with single-crystal solar panels, while improving batteries, energy and the telemetry system.
One of the challenges the team faces today, according to Aoua, is to increase the car’s speed and create a balance between solar and electric charging to travel long distances non-stop during international competitions.
After two previous experiments, innovative students have succeeded in introducing Eleadora II, and the young team is currently preparing to participate in international sports events for this type of cars.
Aoua, who has been a member of the team since December 2020, pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic and the online learning system adopted by many universities during the start of the pandemic, had a negative impact on the team’s performance, particularly when it came to tasks that required in-person attendance to the workshops.
The Eleadora II vehicle is the only Moroccan project to have been officially recognized by Bridgeston, the world’s toughest and most prestigious solar car event.
The team has reached several milestones throughout their journey. They were previously ranked 2nd in the 2016 and 2019 competitions of the Moroccan Solar Challenge.
“We are hoping for the standout Eleadora II to cross the finish line of various competitions around the world such as the Solar Challenge Morocco, Rive Maroc and Sasol Solar Challenge,” said Imane.
