Deakin University has announced its return to the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (BWSC), unveiling a radically redesigned, ultra-efficient solar electric vehicle named DUST.

Designed and built by the Deakin University Solar Team, DUST will compete in the Cruiser Class of the world’s premier solar car event, a 3000-kilometre journey from Darwin to Adelaide, running from August 24–31, 2025.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin said the Challenge shows Deakin’s commitment to innovation and real-world learning.

“Participation in the Bridgestone Challenge will showcase Deakin’s strengths in design engineering while providing exceptional learning experiences that develop creativity and technological skills,” he said.

“It is anticipated Australia will need 100,000 more engineers by 2030. Last year we introduced Engineering at our Burwood Campus – replicating what we already do so well at Waurn Ponds – to help meet demand and address society’s greatest challenges, including the energy transition and major infrastructure projects.”

The 2025 BWSC marks a significant shift, moving from October to August for the first time in its history. This change means teams will face approximately 20 per cent less solar energy, demanding even greater efficiency and innovation.

Deakin’s 21-person team – 17 students and four staff – will be the only Victorian team in the Cruiser Class, competing against 38 teams from 19 countries. The Cruiser Class focuses on solar electric vehicles that are not only energy-efficient but also practical for everyday use. Vehicles are judged on payload, energy consumption, and overall desirability.

Professor Ben Horan, Head of Deakin’s School of Engineering, said the team’s second entry builds on the strong foundation laid in 2023.

“I couldn’t be more excited for our team heading into the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (BWSC) for a second time. The challenge is such a great test of Engineering ingenuity, and I could think of no better way for our students to test the boundaries of what is possible.

“Our Engineering courses centre around projects, and students learning by designing creative and innovative solutions – and our participation in this year’s event really embodies what we are all about.

“We are very grateful to all those that have supported our team to get to this point, in particular our lead sponsor Alinta Energy as well as the support from Solar Victoria and Smart Energy Council – all whose values align with the spirit of the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge.”

DUST has been designed with market acceptance in mind – a solar-powered car that balances aesthetics, performance, and practicality. It’s a vehicle that turns heads and starts conversations around the future of sustainable transportation.

The team’s interdisciplinary approach includes students from engineering, IT, design, marketing, and even film and TV, with the latter supporting social media and documentary production during the event.

The Deakin team departs for Darwin on 15 August to prepare for the 3,000-kilometre journey to Adelaide – a test of endurance, innovation, and teamwork that promises to be the experience of a lifetime.

“I’m expecting a close contest with plenty of twists in the 2025 Challenge, being held for the first time in an Australian winter with 20 per cent less sun,” BWSC Event Ambassador, Chris Selwood AM, said.

“Flying the flag as the only Victorian team, Deakin’s commendable debut in 2023 saw them take home two trophies – the Bridgestone E8 Commitment Award and the PR & Media Award. I’m excited to see what they deliver this time.” Visit the DUST youtube channel for a sneak preview of what to expect https://www.youtube.com/@dust.deakin