Australia

There can be few challenges to man and machine more daunting than the World Solar Challenge. It is a race for solar-powered cars that covers over 3,000 km right across the heart of the Australian continent. It is held every two years.

The 2011 race took place between October 16th and 23rd and we are proud to report that the SEIKO-sponsored team from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) finished in 6th position. Forty teams from all over the world had lined at the start, so to finish 6th was a considerable achievement and one that reflects very well on the 17 strong team from UNSW and all their supporters. The car, Sunswift 4, reached speeds of up to 92kph and performed well throughout the race, which ran the length of the Stuart Highway in a North-South direction.

The World SOLAR Challenge attracts a great deal of media interest every time it is held and this year was no exception. SEIKO Australia played its part in promoting the “green energy” message of the race by supporting the team and giving all 17 members a SEIKO solar watch. SEIKO Australia's efforts were in turn enthusiastically supported by its retail partners in towns along the route.