.svg)
Solar Team Eindhoven Tests Off-Grid Solar Ambulance in Kenya
Image: (c) Solar Team Eindhoven
Solar Team Eindhoven has tested its solar-powered ambulance, Stella Juva, under real-world conditions for the first time in Kenya. Developed by students at Eindhoven University of Technology, the vehicle is designed to bring healthcare to remote regions while operating completely off-grid and without fuel. According to the team, the vehicle generated more solar energy during testing than was needed to power the medical equipment and support local operations.
Solar Team Eindhoven has tested its solar-powered ambulance, Stella Juva, under real-world conditions for the first time in Kenya. Developed by students at Eindhoven University of Technology, the vehicle is designed to bring healthcare to remote regions while operating completely off-grid and without fuel. According to the team, the vehicle generated more solar energy during testing than was needed to power the medical equipment and support local operations.
Over 800 Kilometers of Field Testing
Stella Juva was developed by a team of 23 students. For the project, Solar Team Eindhoven partnered with the international healthcare organization Amref Health Africa. Unlike traditional ambulances, the vehicle is not primarily intended for patient transport, but rather to bring medical personnel and diagnostic capabilities directly to remote areas.
For the field tests, the team traveled around the Narok region in Kenya. In total, Stella Juva covered over 800 kilometers on both paved and unpaved roads. The team reported that the drive to a remote location in Mosiro took six hours at times over challenging terrain.
Aside from a broken tie rod—which was replaced within half an hour—no major technical issues occurred during the drives.
Solar Panels Power Both Vehicle and Medical Equipment
Stella Juva generates its required power via solar panels mounted on the roof. When parked, additional panels can be extended from the sides of the vehicle to increase the available solar surface area. The electricity generated powers both the electric drivetrain and the onboard medical equipment.
The equipment includes an X-ray machine, an ultrasound system, an automated external defibrillator (AED), and refrigeration units for vaccines. Solar Team Eindhoven did not provide specific details in their press release regarding battery capacity, powertrain output, solar wattage, or electric range.