At SEFAB, we believe in harnessing technology for a sustainable future, read on to find out more about Ardingly College’s Solar Utility Vehicle Project.

We are thrilled to announce our collaboration with Dr. Andrew Spiers MBE and his team of students at Ardingly College, in partnership with Ifield College, for their groundbreaking Solar Utility Vehicle (SUV) project.

A Vision for Change: The Ardingly Ifield Solar Car Project

A student-led team building solar cars to power the future in a cleaner, more sustainable way.

For over a decade, the Ardingly Ifield Solar Car project has been at the forefront of sustainable technology, building and racing solar cars across Europe and Australia.

Now, the team is venturing into a new frontier, aiming to design a low-cost, sustainable solar car that powers transportation and provides off-grid electricity for homes, medical centres, and schools in the developing world.

SEFAB’s Role in the Project

As the students at Ardingly College embark on this ambitious journey of creating the SUV, SEFAB is honoured to play a part in this transformative initiative. While the students take the lead in crafting the car, including its innovative batteries, our role involves providing valuable advice and contributing to manufacturing some of the aluminium body panels.

We recognise the importance of supporting initiatives that push the boundaries of technology and address real-world challenges, such as providing green transportation and off-grid electricity in developing regions.

The Solar Utility Vehicle (SUV): A Beacon of Innovation (from the Ardingly Ifield Solar Car project team)

The SUV, expected for road presence by 2025, represents a shift in how we envisage transportation and energy solutions.

Engineered to navigate the challenging terrains of developing countries, the SUV aims for mass production, promising improved connectivity and electricity supply globally.

As we eagerly await the unveiling of the prototype, the SUV stands as a testament to the commitment of the Ardingly Ifield Solar Car team in advancing sustainable technologies.

It symbolises a future where solar-powered cars are a luxury and an accessible reality for all.

Driving Progress: A Look Back at Previous Models

The journey of the Ardingly Ifield Solar Car project has seen remarkable milestones. From the Roadster, the pioneer that raced in the World Bridgestone Solar Challenge in 2015, to the Basking Beastie, a bespoke creation that covered 1500km in the 2019 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, each car has contributed to the team’s wealth of experience and knowledge.

Global Recognition: A Patron’s Perspective

We are honoured to share that His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, an Ardingly Ifield Basking Beastie patron, commends the team’s dedication. Prince Albert’s foundation, committed to promoting renewable energies, recognises the alignment of Ardingly Solar’s approach with his own values.

Stay Tuned for Progress Updates

Excitement is building as the SUV project accelerates toward its goals. SEFAB will be sharing updates on our involvement in this remarkable journey. Follow us for insights into the fabrication process, milestones achieved, and the collective strides toward a cleaner, greener tomorrow.

SEFAB extends its best wishes to Dr. Andrew Spiers, the Ardingly Ifield Solar Car team, and all involved. Let’s drive change and create a future where sustainable solutions power our world.