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Heading to a New Continent: The Belgian Solar Team Heads to America
Leuven, Belgium
November 14, 2025
The Innoptus Solar Team is preparing for an exciting new adventure. In July 2026, KU Leuven students will travel to the United States for the first time to compete in the American Solar Challenge. After a strong performance and third place in Australia in August 2025, the team is determined to once again showcase the value of Belgian innovation in America. This race is not only a technical challenge but also a symbolic milestone: the Belgian team has never before started a race in North America.
A New Continent Calls
After an intense year of developing, testing, and refining their latest solar car, the Infinite Apollo, the team is ready to begin a new chapter. For the first time in their history, they will participate in the American Solar Challenge—an eight-day race where student teams from around the world aim to cover the greatest possible distance using solar power. North America is uncharted territory for the team, making this a true first.
The New Challenge
The race structure differs significantly from the World Championship in Australia. The American race is not only longer but also features heavier traffic and more elevation changes. The solar car will need to be adapted to these new conditions.
Regulations also differ greatly. As a result, the Infinite Apollo will undergo structural modifications, including the addition of a metal roll cage above the driver’s head, a requirement under U.S. safety standards.
Moreover, the organizers have not yet announced the route or exact dates, making it even harder to predict how this unfamiliar course will impact strategy.
“The route is still unknown, and it’s our first time in America, so we can’t rely on previous teams’ knowledge. That’s why we’re now looking at historical weather data—sunlight, wind—and routes from past editions to build some insights.”
Quinten Duyck (23, Sint-Katelijne-Waver), Strategist at Innoptus Solar Team
Australia as a Lesson, America as a Comeback
After their success in South Africa in 2024 and the intense experience in Australia in 2025—where they had to relinquish their world title—the team is eager for America. The Infinite Apollo proved highly performant in Australia, giving the team confidence that first place is within reach.
“Our experience in Australia made us much stronger. We now know what works and what doesn’t, and how to adapt quickly in unforeseen situations. We’ve learned so much and are ready to go all-in for victory in America.”
Marie-Johanna Schillemans (21, Dendermonde), Team Manager at Innoptus Solar Team