2015

REGULATIONS
18-25 OCT 2015

Document Control
Release version 1.2 issued 2 February 2015
Added the name Bridgestone where appropriate.
1.12 Schedule dates amended
1.9 Chief Scrutineer updated
1.27.1 Renumbered due to typographic error
1.28 Incorporated clauses 9/10/11 from Bulletin 1/2014 (as appended).
1.29.1 Dot point Logistics Information added to Group C
2.11.1 Clarified that approval must be in accordance with 2.11.2
2.21.4 changed word for to while
2.22.19/20 Renumber due to typographic error
2.22.20 Word inbound changed to impound
3.2.1 Renumbered due to typographic error
3.3.1 Words or exceed deleted, added footnote for clarity.
3.8.9 Footnote updated
3.37.5 Words while charging added for clarity.
4.4 Date corrected

E&OE

World Solar Challenge

Introduction & Welcome

The purpose of the World Solar Challenge is to stimulate research into, and development of, sustainable
transport, meaning that the World Solar Challenge is primarily a design competition. The regulatory philosophy
is to provide the parameters upon which to base the design, rather than specify exactly how each is to be
achieved. Science and technology evolve and to encourage the most innovative ideas, so too do the event
requirements. It is the established practice for the detailed requirements and dates of the competition to be
announced on World Environment Day (June 5) in the year preceding the event.
Participation in the 2015 World Solar Challenge calls for the design and construction of a Solar Electric Vehicle
within the given design parameters, and driving the Solar EV across the continent of Australia in accordance
with these regulations.
The information contained herein is written for the purposes of conducting the 2015 World Solar Challenge
and must not be regarded as constituting definitive instructions as to how a Solar EV should be constructed or
operated.
The name World Solar Challenge and the sun device logo are Registered Trade Marks maintained by the
Government of South Australia. This work is copyright World Solar Challenge 2014. The World Solar
Challenge asserts its moral right to be identified as the copyright owner of the intellectual property contained
in this document whether in physical or electronic form.
Changes for 2015 include:

The introduction of new media and Intellectual Property rules.

Control Stop activities have been redefined. Teams may not do any work on their car during
control stop time.

Solar EV size limits will apply to charging as well as driving. Teams may not reconfigure solar
collectors outside the dimensions of the car, or employ charging stands or cables carried by
support vehicles.

Cruiser Class scoring has been adjusted, and charging from the grid will be allowed only in Alice
Springs.

Document submission has been staggered to make compliance easier, and a new General
Specification document introduced to capture essential information in one place.

The size of the frontal area signage requirement has been reduced, and its visibility criteria
redefined, to make compliance easier.

Electrical isolation requirements have been changed to make it easier to supply low voltage to
the Solar EV when the high voltage system is isolated, and at the same time define a safe state
as the vehicle system default.

A requirement to make provision for a data logging device has been introduced.

In addition, a number of operational changes will be made to make monitoring progress and publishing
results more efficient and new procedures will be introduced to deal with penalties.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 1

This document is organised as far as practical into the following sections:

Administration

Innovation (technical and structural design parameters)

Adventure (the On-Road protocols)

Achievement and celebration.

Additional information or clarification of intent of the Regulation is included in italics.

Section 1 - Administration
1.1

Scope

1.1.1

These regulations apply to the 2015 World Solar Challenge (hereinafter called the Event), and
comprise participants eligibility, pre-event preparation, scrutineering, testing, on-road components
and any associated activities published by the Organiser as being part of the Event.

1.1.2

The Event will be conducted under the regulations described in this document (which supersede
regulations for any previous World Solar Challenge) and any Further Regulations or Bulletins that may
be issued.

1.2

Organisation

1.2.1

All correspondence shall be conducted in English, the Official Language of the Event.

1.2.2

Official correspondence will only be conducted between The Organiser and the Entrants nominated
representative, as detailed by the Entrant on the Entry Form. Written instruction to include others in
team correspondence will be accepted.

1.2.3

The Event will be conducted in accordance with the published schedule of activities (see Regulation
1.12).

1.3

Time Zones

1.3.1

At the time of the Event, Darwin and the Northern Territory observe Australian Central Standard Time
(ACST=UTC+9.5) while Adelaide and South Australia observe Australian Central Daylight Time
(ACDT=UTC+10.5). The Event will observe ACST (Darwin time) throughout the journey to Adelaide.

1.3.2

After arrival at the Finish Line, all activities will be conducted in ACDT (Adelaide Time).

1.4

Conduct of the Event

1.4.1

The on-road component of the Event is conducted on public roads between Darwin and Adelaide,
Australiaa distance of approximately 3000 km. This activity is conducted under all applicable traffic
codes, laws and regulations.

1.4.2

Event related activities in Australia, including any conducted prior to the official commencement of
the Event, are governed by the relevant statutory regulations, breaches of which may incur event
penalties.

Page | 2

World Solar Challenge

1.5

Eligibility

1.5.1

Applications for participation are invited from any team prepared to meet the standards and
obligations of the competition. Eligible vehicles will be those who meet the design criteria described
by these Regulations, and have been granted the Conditional Registration required by the civil
authorities.

1.6

Entrant Obligation

1.6.1

Entrants are required to know and understand the Regulations of the Event and participation will
constitute their full acceptance.

1.6.2

The Manager of each Team is responsible for the actions of Team Members, and other individuals
associated with the Team.

1.6.3

Entrants are expected to act fairly and in good faith in accordance with the Regulations.

1.6.4

Penalties (which may include exclusion) will be applied to any Team deemed to have departed from
the Spirit of the Event by deliberately acting to gain an unfair advantage over others, or by conduct
which could bring the Event into disrepute.

1.7

Event Organiser
The event is organised by the South Australian Motor Sport Board (the Organiser).
The Registered Office is:
World Solar Challenge
South Australian Motor Sport Board
Level 1/164 Fullarton Road
Dulwich, South Australia, 5065
Postal address: PO Box 663,
Kent Town, South Australia, 5071
Telephone: +61 8 8212 8500
Facsimile: +61 8 8212 6700
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.worldsolarchallenge.org
ABN: 43 976 679 496
The event is owned by the Government of South Australia.

1.8

Organising Committee
The Organising Committee is:
Chief Executive (SAMSB)
Event Director
Event Manager
Faculty
Faculty Support

World Solar Challenge

Mark Warren
Chris Selwood
Kathryn Lee
Dr David Rand AM ScD FSTE
Paul Gwan
Dr Peter Pudney
Wendy Matthews

Prof. John Storey

Dr David Snowdon
Dr John Ward

Page | 3

1.9

Officials of the Event

The Officials of the Event are:
Event Director
Clerk of the Course
Assistant Clerks of the Course (Red Shirts)
Control Stop Managers
Paddock Manager (Hidden Valley)
Secretary of the Event
Chief Safety Officer
Chief Medical Officer
Chief Competitor Liaison Officer
Chief Energy Scientist
Chief Scrutineer
Chief Timekeeper
Chief Steward
Technical Steward
International Steward
Cruiser Class manager

Chris Selwood
To be announced in Further Regulations
To be announced in Further Regulations
To be announced in Further Regulations
To be announced in Further Regulations
To be announced in Further Regulations
To be announced in Further Regulations
To be announced in Further Regulations
To be announced in Further Regulations
Dr David Rand AM FSTE
Paul Gwan
To be announced in Further Regulations
Roger Brown
Dr Peter Pudney
To be appointed by the International Solarcar
Federation
Dr David Snowdon (Dr Cruise)

1.10 Judges of Fact

1.10.1

Officials appointed by the Event are considered to be Judges of Fact on all Event related activities.

1.10.2

Observers (see Regulation 3.14.1) appointed by the Event are considered to be Judges of Fact on all
Event related activities.

1.11 Stewards
1.11.1

The Stewards of the Event are the only authority empowered to make a decision concerning the
interpretation of the Regulations of the Event.

1.12 Schedule

Page | 4

Action
2015 Regulations published
Application for Entries Open
Application for Entries Close

Date
5 June 2014
5 June 2014
27 March 2015

Entry list published

5 June 2015

Draft Group A Documentation

Group B Documentation
Final Group A Documentation
Group C Documentation
Group D Documentation

30 April 2015
30 June 2015
31 July 2015
31 August 2015
12 October 2015

Event Headquarters Open - Darwin

Official Event Period commences
Team Manager Briefing
Static Scrutineering commences
Team Briefings commence
Official Team Function
Dynamic Scrutineering commences

6 October 2015
6 October 2015
12 October2015
13 October 2015
13 October 2015
16 October 2015
17 October 2015

Comment
On publication of the Regulations
Noon, Adelaide time

Online submission
Online submission
Online submission
Online submission
To be presented during scrutineering

World Solar Challenge

Media Briefing
Ceremonial Start in Darwin
Ceremonial Finish opens in Adelaide
Cruiser Class Public Judging
Award Ceremony
Pack down area closes

17 October 2015
18 October 2015
22 October 2015
24 October 2015
25 October 2015
27 October 2015

1.13 Entering the Event

1.13.1

Application for participation must be made on the approved form, available on the World Solar
Challenge website, and signed by an authorised person.

1.13.2

Applications may be made from the time these regulations are published, until noon on Friday 27
March 2015 (Adelaide time), or such other time as the Organiser may determine. The number of
places is limited. Applications received after the limit is reached may be placed on a reserve list.

1.13.3

To encourage early application, places granted before 30 September 2014 will qualify for a discount
and other benefits.

1.13.4

When the offer of a place is made, the Entrant will have 7 days to accept the offer.

1.13.5

Once an offer has been accepted, The South Australian Motor Sport Board will issue an invoice for
payment of the Entry Fee, payment of which, by the due date, will confirm the entry.

1.13.6

Any invoice which has not been paid by the due date will void the entry.

1.13.7

The Organiser reserves the right to accept or reject any entry without explanation.

1.13.8

The Organiser reserves the right to accept late entries, and apply a late entry fee.

1.13.9

Entrants who do not satisfy the Chief Scrutineer that they will achieve compliance with the
Regulations will fail to qualify for the Event and their place may be offered to a Team on the reserve
list.

1.13.10 The Organiser is unable to take responsibility for any person born after 1 October 1997. If an Entrant
wishes to have a person under the age of 18 in their team, written permission to participate in the
Event, acknowledging that supervision is the responsibility of the Team Manager, must be given by
the parent or legal guardian of any such proposed participant, and signed by both them and by the
Team Manager.

1.14 Team Members

1.14.1

Each Team must include (but not be limited to):

a Team Manager

an interpreter if the Team Manager is not proficient in English

at least two and at most four Solar EV drivers

at most eight registered Solar EV passengers (for Cruiser Class)

a Safety Officer

a Battery Officer

World Solar Challenge

Page | 5


1.14.2

at least two drivers for each team support vehicle.

Each Team Member must register online, and be physically present at Team Registration in Darwin.

1.15 Solar EV drivers

1.15.1

Each Solar EV driver must hold an appropriate motor vehicle driver's licence recognised by Australian
authorities valid for not less than the total period of the Event. Driving licences will be inspected and
verified by the Australian Road Transport Authorities as part of the scrutineering process.
Acceptable driving licences will include a photograph of the holder, the class of vehicle for which the licence
applies and the expiry date. If these details are not in English, either the licence must be accompanied by a
certified translation, or a valid International Driving Licence is required.

1.15.2

All Solar EV drivers must have a minimum experience of 12 hours driving the Solar EV, as
demonstrated by the presentation of a logbook and a signed declaration by the Team Manager.

1.16 Team Identification

1.16.1

Team and Solar EV names will be taken from the Entry Form. Any change will be subject to the
approval of the Organiser.

1.16.2

Each Team will be allocated a Team Number on acceptance of entry.

1.16.3

Early bird registrants may make a special request for the use of a particular Team Number. Requested
numbers should contain two digits. 01 is the privilege of the current holder of the World Solar Cup.

1.16.4

Allocation of any number is at the sole discretion of the Organiser.

1.17 Entry Fee

The World Solar Challenge is not a commercial operation. The cost of staging an event over three weeks and 3000
km are significant and the Organiser, whilst cognisant of the cost of participation, recognises that the basic costs
of the operation must be borne by the Entrant.

1.17.1

Entry fees are based on the class requested on the entry form. For example if a Challenger Class
entrant fails to qualify and is offered a place in the Adventure Class, no refund is payable.

Challenger Class

AU$ 10,000

Cruiser Class

AU$ 10,000

Adventure Class

AU$ 8,000

Evolution Class

Contact Organiser

Figures include Australian tax. An official Tax Invoice will be provided.

1.17.2

Fees invoiced before 30 September 2014 will qualify for a discount of 10%. In the event that the
amount remains outstanding after the due date for payment, a supplementary invoice reversing this
discount will be issued.

1.17.3

International banking charges are the responsibility of the Entrant. Minor adjustment (up to AU$150)
can be settled at registration in Darwin.

1.17.4

Entry requests granted after the close of entries will attract a 10% late fee.

Page | 6

World Solar Challenge

1.18

Other Fees

1.18.1

A Capitation Fee of AU$30 will be levied on each team member travelling from Darwin to Adelaide.
The fee will include remote area air-ambulance emergency evacuation insurance, and is payable in
Darwin.

1.18.2

A Fee (estimated at AU$50) may be payable to the Motor Accident Commission by the owner of each
Solar EV in respect of compulsory third party bodily injury insurance required by operators of motor
vehicles.

1.19 Refunds
1.19.1

Refund entitlement is based on date of withdrawal.

Date of Withdrawal
before 27 March 2015
before 30 May 2015
1 June 31 August 2015
after 1 September 2015
Cancellation or abandonment by
Organiser

Entitlement
full refund less bank charges
refund less 15%
refund less 50%
no refund
full refund

1.20 Cancellation of Event

1.20.1

The Organiser reserves the right to cancel or abandon the Event for any reason. The Organisers
liability for costs incurred by an entrant are limited to the amount of the Entry Fee received.

1.21 Insurance
1.21.1

Public Liability Insurance

The Organiser holds a $20,000,000 Public Liability policy which covers registered participants. The
cost is part of the Entry Fee.

1.21.2

Compulsory Third Party Injury

The Organiser will arrange for Third Party Bodily Injury insurance required to operate the Solar EV on
public roads, a fee for which may be payable by the owner of the vehicle. (see Regulation 1.18.2).

1.21.3

Third Party Property Damage

Cover has been arranged to cover any claims on the Organiser for damage done by your Solar EV
during the event. The cost is part of the Entry Fee.

1.21.4

Comprehensive Insurance for personal effects, tools, equipment, Solar EVs and other vehicles is the
responsibility of the entrant.
Participants are advised that a personal travel insurance policy in respect of theft, loss, sickness and accidents is
highly recommended. The Australian Government has reciprocal agreements covering limited subsidised health
services for medical treatment with some countries through Medicare. For more detailed information can be
found at www.medicareaustralia.gov.au. The Organiser will ensure that the costs of remote area evacuation and
emergency medical treatment are covered in the event of an accident. As this can be tens of thousands of dollars,
the Capitation fee described in Regulation 1.18.1 will be levied on each individual team member travelling from
Darwin to Adelaide as part of the event.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 7

1.22 Permits
1.22.1

Motor vehicles entering Australia require a federal import permit. The Organiser will make bulk
application in respect of the Solar EV. Import permit arrangements for other vehicles (including road
trailers) are the responsibility of the Entrant.

1.23 Freight
1.23.1

The Organiser will appoint a freight agent licensed by Australian Customs Service.

1.23.2

Freight deliveries to Hidden Valley Motorsport Complex outside the dates of the Event will not be
accepted.

1.23.3

Details of all freight, Customs and Quarantine arrangements will be provided to registered teams.

1.24 Visas
1.24.1

Visas are required to enter Australia. Details of visa requirements can be found at www.immi.gov.au.

1.24.2

The Event is registered with the Australian Department of Immigration. Details of how the Organiser
is able to support visa applications will be provided to registered teams.

1.25 Vehicle preparation

1.25.1

Preparation facilities will be available at Hidden Valley motorsport complex in accordance with the
dates listed in the Schedule (see Regulation 1.12).

1.25.2

Responsibility for all operations at the Hidden Valley site is with the Organiser. Hidden Valley
management is unable to assist with early arrivals, pit allocations or freight issues.
Details of all arrangements will be published in the Team Managers Guide.

1.26 Copyright and Intellectual Property

1.26.1

It is a condition of participation that the Entrant acknowledges that the intellectual property of the
Event is owned by the Organiser, and as such the Organiser holds the right to license any and all
commercial depictions of the Event in any form, including but not limited to electronic, print or other
media.

1.26.2

The Correct Title of the Event is the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge. The Correct Title is the Word
Mark of the Event. Entrants and their sponsors must use the Correct Title in all references to the
Event.
The Correct Logo of the Event will be published as an appendix to these Regulations. The Correct Logo will be
supported by a Style Guide detailing its conditions of use.

1.26.3

The Word Mark and Official Logo are copyright and Trade Marks held by the Government of South
Australia

1.26.4

Registered Entrants and their sponsors wishing to use the Word Mark and Logo in non-commercial
publicity may do so in accordance with the requirements of the Style Guide.

1.26.5

Registered Entrants and their sponsors wishing to use the Word Mark and Logo in a commercial
context (i.e. merchandise offered for sale) must seek the written permission of the Organiser.

Page | 8

World Solar Challenge

1.27 Sponsorship Obligations

1.27.1

It is a condition of participation that the Entrant acknowledges Event and category sponsors in their
own publicity. Failure to do so may result in the team being delisted from Event publicity.

1.28 Media and Promotional Obligations

1.28.1

A Promotional Schedule will form part of the Schedule of Activities. The Promotional Schedule will
contain details of Official Media Calls and other promotional activities created for the benefit of
Entrants and their sponsors.

1.28.2

Entrants must attend Official Media Calls with the Solar EV and any other Team personal vehicles
and/or equipment requested.
Entrants may be requested to support other promotional activities, with the Solar EV, if required.

1.28.3

Registered Entrants must notify the Organiser of public and/or media promotional activities held for
or on behalf of their attendance in the Event, not less than 7 days prior to the activity taking place.
Commercial confidence and media embargos will be honoured.

1.28.4

Media travelling with or in support of any Entrant must meet, and act, in accordance with the Event
media accreditation requirements.
Entrants will be held accountable, through the application of Event penalties, for the actions of media
representatives travelling with or in support of their Team, whether registered or not.

1.28.5

Registered Entrants who maintain an Internet presence are required to provide a link to the official
Bridgestone World Solar Challenge website www.worldsolarchallenge.org

1.28.6

By entering the Event, Participants implicitly agree to the use, in perpetuity, of their names, images
depictions and technical data of their vehicles, equipment and crew in any publicity material
generated by the Event, its sponsors or licensees.
Technical data submitted as part of the qualifying process will be considered confidential before the Event.

1.28.7

The creation and use of any sound recording, still or moving image of the Event for commercial gain
or public performance by the Entrant and/or their Sponsor/s is subject to the prior written approval
of the Organiser, and the terms and conditions imposed as part of the approval process.
Teams are advised to contact the Organiser prior to entering into any commitment (for example as a condition of
individual team sponsorship) for any such commercial arrangement, as failure to observe these conditions may
lead to Breach of Copyright action by the State of South Australia.

1.28.8

Non-commercial media content generated by the Entrant must reference the Event in accordance
with the provisions of Regulation 1.26.2

1.28.9

Teams or their sponsors shall not engage in any marketing or promotional activity that will materially
detract from the value and standing of the sponsors of the event.

1.28.10 Activity by sponsors of teams shall not imply ownership of the event.
1.28.11 Team Managers are responsible for the activities of their sponsor.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 9

1.29 Compulsory Documentation

1.29.1

Each Team must submit the following documentation using the templates provided, by the dates
stated in the Schedule (1.12). Documents are divided into three groups. Group A will have both draft
and final deadlines.

Group A:

General Specification

Electrical System Specification

Solar Collector Specification

Energy Storage System Specification.

Group B:

Battery Incident Plan

Team Safety Plan.

Group C:

(draft) Roadworthiness Certificate

Observer Arrangements

Publication-quality information and photographs of the Team and Solar EV.

Logistics information.

Group D:

1.29.2

Two printed A4 copies of a diagram (plan view, front of the Solar EV at the top), clearly showing
how emergency isolation is to be activated

The (original) signed Roadworthiness Certificate.

Once the specification of the Solar EV has been lodged and accepted, requests to make changes to
items described in the Compulsory Documentation must be sent to the Organiser in writing. If
granted, any document submitted by a team will supersede all previous versions.

Section 2 - Technical Regulations for the Solar EV

2.1

Classes

2.1.1

Each regulation applies to all Solar EV Classes unless specified otherwise.

2.1.2

Challenger Class Solar EVs are designed for efficiency. They carry a driver only. The winner of the
Challenger Class will be the first Challenger Class Solar EV to complete the course in accordance with
the Regulations.

Page | 10

World Solar Challenge

2.1.3

Cruiser Class Solar EVs are designed for practicality. They must be designed to carry two or more
occupants. They will be judged on external energy use, the time taken to complete the course,
payload carried, and practicality.

2.1.4

Adventure Class allows a team to run a Solar EV that has met the requirements of a previous
recognised event, but does not comply with the requirements of the Challenger Class. Adventure
Class vehicles must meet the safety requirements of this Event.

2.1.5

Evolution Class is a forum for demonstrating vehicles that have been designed, equipped or modified
to demonstrate a significant reduction in the environmental impact of their operation. These may be
practical or concept vehicles that meet road authority requirements for individually constructed
vehicles but not the requirements of the Solar EV classes. The Organiser will determine the eligibility
of any vehicle submitted for the Evolution Class.

2.1.6

Evolution Class vehicles must comply with the same regulations as Cruiser Class Solar EVs, with the
following exceptions:

energy sources are not restricted

energy storage capacity is not restricted

the energy storage system does not have to be removable from the vehicle.

2.1.7

Evolution Class Entrants may apply to the Organiser for further exemptions.

2.1.8

Solar EVs that do not meet all requirements for Challenger Class may be allowed to run in the
Adventure Class.

2.1.9

Solar EVs that do not meet all requirements for Cruiser Class may be allowed to run in the Evolution
Class.

2.1.10

The Organiser reserves the right to determine the Class of any vehicle.
The class names and concepts are the intellectual property of the World Solar Challenge. The names may only be
used in other events with permission and suitable acknowledgement.

2.2

Solar EV Dimensions

2.2.1

Challenger Class and Cruiser Class Solar EVs must be no more than 4500mm in length, no more than
1800mm in width and no more than 2200mm in height (above the ground) at any time while
charging or driving.

2.2.2

Wheels and wheel spats may exceed this envelope while turning. Doors may exceed this envelope
while occupants are getting in or out. The solar collector may exceed this envelope when being reconfigured for charging or driving. (but not when charging or driving. See Regulation 2.2.1)

2.3

Configuration

2.3.1

Challenger Class and Cruiser Class Solar EVs must be supported by four wheels: two front wheels and
two rear wheels. The points of contact between the tyres and the road must be symmetrical about
the longitudinal centreline of the Solar EV.

2.3.2

For Challenger Class and Cruiser Class Solar EVs, the distance between the front tyre centres and the
distance between the rear tyre centres must each be not less than half the width of the Solar EV while
driving.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 11

2.3.3

When seated in a normal driving position, the drivers eyes must be not less than 700mm above the
road.

2.4

Construction

2.4.1

Solar EVs must be constructed or adapted to protect, as far as is reasonably possible, the occupants in
the event of collision or roll-over. Steps should be taken to ensure that the structure (such as the solar
collector), components or accessories will not impinge on the occupant space in a crash.

2.4.2

Occupants of Solar EVs, whilst seated in a normal driving position, must be enclosed in a safety cage
capable of protecting them from a (hypothetical) drop of 1 metre onto a concrete floor, from every
orientation.
Forces due to impact are typically calculated by F = E/s, where E is the kinetic energy of the object prior to the
-2
collision and s is the distance travelled after impact. Previously we specified a force of 5 m g, where g = 9.8 ms .
For a 250kg Challenger Class Solar EV (with driver), this is equivalent to stopping in 0.2m from a 1m drop onto
-1
concrete or stopping in 4.1m from speed 20ms .

2.4.3

The Entrant must describe, in the General Specification, how the Solar EV will meet the requirements
of Regulation 2.4, and provide details of the steps that have been taken to ensure occupant safety in
the event of a collision with a hard surface, a post or pole and with animals.

2.4.4

For Challenger and Cruiser Class Solar EVs, head space must comply with Section LK of the National
Code of Practice for Light Vehicle Construction and Modification, as shown in the following diagram.
The 835mm radius arm must be able to move 45 forwards, 25 backwards and 7 either side of
vertical. The Solar EV structure, including the windscreen, must lie wholly outside the head space. The
steering wheel, mirrors, seat backs and head restraints may be in the head space zone.

Page | 12

World Solar Challenge

Radius
835mm
+- 7

World Solar Challenge

Page | 13

2.5

Occupant Ventilation and Hydration

2.5.1

Adequate ventilation and drinking water must be provided to all occupants. Details of the ventilation
system must be described in the General Specification Document.
Ambient temperature during the World Solar Challenge can be over 45C, and the interior of a Solar EV can be
10C above the ambient temperature. Ventilation, together with adequate hydration, is particularly important to
allow Solar EV occupants to maintain a healthy body temperature.

2.6

Vision

2.6.1

The driver, when seated in the normal driving position with both seatbelt and helmet, must have clear
forwards vision. For Challenger and Cruiser Class Solar EVs, the driver must be able to see every point
between 0.40m below eye level and 0.70m above eye level at a distance of 4.0m from the drivers
eyes, at every forward angle.

2.6.2

The Solar EV must have rear vision systems that enable the driver to see the shaded areas shown
from the normal driving position with the seatbelt fastened (UNECE Regulation 46, Section 15).

2.6.3

Rear vision systems may be electronic, mirrors, or both. Rear vision systems must operate whenever
the Solar EV is in motion under its own power. Rear vision images must be oriented so that objects on
the right of the Solar EV are on the right of the image.

2.6.4

All windows must be made of a material that is highly resistant to breakage or major damage.
Windows that are necessary to ensure the drivers field of view must be made of transparent material
that does not distort vision or colour.

2.6.5

Windows must have an optical transmittance not less than 75% (UNECE Regulation 43).

Page | 14

World Solar Challenge

2.7

Seats

2.7.1

Each occupant must be provided with a forward facing seat that consists of a base (squab) and
backrest.

2.7.2

Cruiser Class Solar EVs must have two or more seats.

2.7.3

For Challenger Class and Cruiser Class Solar EVs, each seat must have a head restraint. The distance
from the Seating Reference Point to the top of the head restraint must be not less than 800mm for
front seats and not less than 750mm for rear seats (UNECE Regulations 17 and 25).

2.7.4

For the purpose of the Event, the Seating Reference Point will be approximated as shown in the
diagram below, and the top of the head restraint must be outside a radius r = 800mm for front seats
and outside a radius r = 750mm for rear seats.

2.7.5

For Challenger Class and Cruiser Class Solar EVs, each occupants heels must be below the seating
reference point, and the angle between the shoulders, hips and knees must be not less than 90
degrees.

2.7.6

Seatbelts must be fitted for each seating position. Seatbelts must be compliant with UNECE
Regulation 16 or US FMVSS 571.209 (or equivalent) and display the appropriate compliance marking.

2.7.7

Seatbelts must be fitted and used in according to the manufacturers instructions.

2.7.8

For Challenger Class and Cruiser Class Solar EVs, seatbelt anchorages must meet the intent of UNECE
Regulation 14.
Section LK of the Australian National Code of Practice for Light Vehicle Construction and Modification gives
examples of how this can be met.

2.7.9

Provision must be made to secure driver and passenger ballast (provided by the Organiser during
Static Scrutineering) within 300mm of each seated occupant, and easily accessible by the Observer.
As a general guide, the density of the provided ballast is about 1.5 kg/L.

2.8

Doors and openings

2.8.1

Teams must demonstrate that all occupants (one per seat) can exit the Solar EV in less than 15
seconds without assistance.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 15

2.8.2

Challenger and Cruiser Class Solar EVs must have doors or access points that can be secured and
released from both inside and outside the Solar EV.

2.8.3

Emergency opening points, and the method of opening, must be clearly indicated on the exterior of
the Solar EV.

2.8.4

Securing of any door, canopy or hatch canopy or hatch, required for occupant egress, with adhesive
tape is not permitted.

2.9

Brakes
Braking requirements for Solar EVs are based on UNECE Regulation 13-H.

2.9.1

The Solar EV must be equipped with two independent mechanical braking systems, so that if one
system fails the other can still bring the Solar EV to a halt.
A regenerative braking system does not contribute to the requirement of Regulation 2.9.1.

2.9.2

Independent braking systems may share components deemed not liable to failure provided that they
are amply dimensioned and readily accessible for maintenance.

2.9.3

Components not liable to failure are:

a brake pedal and its bearing

hydraulic cylinders and their pistons

hydraulic control valves

brake cylinders and their pistons

brake lever and cam assemblies.

Hydraulic brake hoses and lines are regarded as liable to failure. In general, bicycle brakes are not sufficiently
dimensioned to be regarded as not liable to failure.

2.9.4

Mechanical braking effort must be applied to at least two wheels.

2.9.5

Braking must not cause the Solar EV to yaw.

2.9.6

For Solar EVs without anti-lock brakes, the front wheels must lock up before the rear wheels.

2.9.7

The Solar EV must be able to stop within distance 0.1 v + 0.0060 v metres from any speed v, in km/h,
that the Solar EV can achieve, up to 100km/h.

2.9.8

Braking performance will be tested at Dynamic Scrutineering. Each Team must demonstrate that they
can stop their Solar EV in less than 20m from 50km/h.

2.9.9

Cruiser Class Solar EVs must be equipped with a park brake that is capable of holding the gross vehicle
mass on a 20% gradient.

2.10 Steering
2.10.1

The steering system must have minimal backlash, and be designed with adequate strength and
stiffness to assure good driving control in all circumstances.

2.10.2

The Solar EV must be able to make a U-turn in either direction within a 16m lane, kerb to kerb.

Page | 16

World Solar Challenge

2.10.3

Rear wheel steering (if fitted) must not compromise the control of the vehicle under any
circumstances, including emergency manoeuvres or following failures such as tyre blowouts. Teams
designing Solar EVs with rear wheel steering must describe, in the General Specification Document,
how these requirements are met.

2.10.4

The steering system must be controlled by a steering wheel which conforms to one of the following
permitted designs.

2.10.5

Failure of any non-mechanical component of the steering system must not prevent effective steering
of the Solar EV.

2.10.6

Steering shafts must be designed so that they will not spear the driver in a crash.
A collapsible boss is an acceptable way to reduce steering wheel impacts.

2.11 Tyres
2.11.1

2.11.2

Solar EVs must be fitted with tyres that are:

compliant with UNECE Regulation 30, UNECE Regulation 75 or US FMVSS 571.109, as indicated by
DOT or E approval marking on the tyre; or

otherwise approved by the Organiser. (see 2.11.2)

Teams wishing to use tyres that do not have appropriate approval markings must be approved by the
Australian Road Traffic Authorities.
The Organiser will administer this process which requires the manufacturer to submit a sample tyre and written
technical specifications to the Organisers office not later than 30 April 2015. A positive outcome to the approval
process, which may take up to three months, is not guaranteed.

2.11.3

Tyres must have a tread depth of at least 1.5mm, and be free of any apparent defect

2.11.4

All front tyres must be of the same type. All rear tyres must be of the same type.

2.11.5

Tyres must be rated to withstand the loads and forces imposed by the Solar EV mass, speed, steering
and braking, and must be used in accordance with their manufacturers recommendations at all
times.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 17

2.12 Lights and indicators

Headlamps, retro-reflecting devices, illumination for rear registration plates, end outline lamps, fog lamps,
reversing lamps and parking lamps are not required for the Event.

2.12.1

Rear stop lamps and front and rear direction indicators (turning indicators) are required.

2.12.2

Stop lamps must emit red light. Direction indicators must emit amber light.

2.12.3

For Challenger Class and Adventure Class Solar EVs, lamps must be clearly visible, in sunlight, at a
distance of 30m.

2.12.4

For Cruiser Class Solar EVs, lamps must be compliant with UNECE Regulations 6, 7 and 37 or the
SAE/DOT equivalents, and must have UNECE or SAE/DOT compliance markings.
Cruiser Class Solar EVs that are registered for on-road use in their home country may apply for an exemption from
this requirement.

2.12.5

For Challenger and Cruiser Class Solar EVs, lamps must comply with the following requirements
(UNECE Regulation 48):
2.12.5.1 Direction indicator lamps must be within 400mm of the extreme outer edge of the Solar EV
on each side, at least 600mm apart (400mm apart if the Solar EV is less than 1300mm wide), and not
less than 350mm above the ground. They must be visible 15 up, 5 down, 80 outward and 45
inward.
2.12.5.2 Brake lamps must be at the rear of the Solar EV, within 400mm of the extreme outer edge of
the Solar EV on each side, at least 600mm apart (400mm apart if the Solar EV is less than 1300mm
wide), and not less than 350mm above the ground. They must be visible 15 up, 5 down and 45 to
the left and right.
2.12.5.3 An eye-level brake lamp is required. Viewed from behind the Solar EV, the lateral position of
the lamp must coincide with the visual centre of the Solar EV (typically the centreline of the canopy or
rear windscreen). The lamp must be higher than a point 150mm below the rear windscreen or
canopy. The lamp must be visible 10 up, 5 down and 10 to the left and right.

2.12.6

Direction indicators must flash at 9030 flashes per minute.

2.12.7

It must be possible to flash the left and right direction indicator lamps simultaneously, as a hazard
warning signal.

2.13 Reversing mechanism

2.13.1

Cruiser Class Solar EVs must be able to be driven backwards under their own power with the driver
seated in the normal position.

2.14 Horn
2.14.1

An audible warning device must be permanently fitted to the Solar EV. It must be capable of giving
sufficient audible warning of the presence of the Solar EV, and have a constant amplitude and
frequency (UNECE Regulation 28).

Page | 18

World Solar Challenge

2.15 Instrumentation
2.15.1

Instrumentation must be provided to continuously inform the driver of the speed of the Solar EV and
provide instant warning if the battery exceeds its operating parameters. (see Regulation 2.22.6)

2.16 Vehicle Control

2.16.1

Any cruise control function must automatically deactivate when the brake or accelerator pedal is
operated, and when the main switch is turned off.

2.17 Identification
2.17.1

The Solar EV must have a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which must be permanently
attached to a substantial part of the Solar EV chassis or frame.
For the purposes of the Event, this does not need to be a 17 digit VIN that meets ISO 3779

2.17.2

Solar EVs that pass scrutineering will be issued with a Northern Territory Government licence plate
(aluminium, 215 97mm, fees apply), which must be displayed on the Solar EV so that it can be read
from behind the Solar EV.

2.17.3

For Challenger Class and Cruiser Class Solar EVs, the licence plate must be mounted without bending
it and with its normal not more than 10 degrees from the direction of travel, with the baseline of the
lettering horizontal.

2.18 Compulsory Signage

2.18.1

An unbroken rectangular space, 200mm in height 500mm in width must be provided on each of
the left and right sides of the Solar EV for Event signage. Each of these spaces must be clearly visible
to a person standing 5m to the corresponding side of the Solar EV. The Organiser will provide Event
signage to qualifying Teams in Darwin.

2.18.2

Teams must display their Team Number on the left and right of the Solar EV, in digits that are not less
than 150mm high and clearly visible against their background to a person standing 5m to the side of
the Solar EV.

2.18.3

Challenger Class and Cruiser Class Solar EVs must have an unbroken front signage area, 600
150mm, at the front of the Solar EV. The Event logo; name of the Entrant; name of the Team and the
name of the car should be placed at the leading edge. The entire front signage area must be visible in
both plan view and in front elevation view. The front signage area may be wrapped around the
compound curvature of the Solar EV body, but the minimum distance along the surface between the
left and right edges of the front signage area must be not less than 600mm and the minimum
distance along the surface between the upper and lower edges of the front signage area must be not
less than 150mm. The front signage area must not contain solar collectors.

2.18.4

A 150 150mm Event Logo must be placed within the front signage area. Artwork will be available
(From March 2015) for teams wishing to incorporate the Event Logo in vehicle coatings. Event Logo
stickers will be provided to other Teams at scrutineering.

2.18.5

The national flag of the country of entry must be displayed on the Solar EV, fixed adjacent to the
windscreen. Minimum size is 70mm 40mm.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 19

2.19 Electrical

Electrical requirements are based on Section 5 of UNECE Regulation 100.

The term high voltage means more than 60V dc or more than 30V rms ac.

2.19.1

All high-voltage parts must be protected by covers or protection grills that are reliably secured and
marked with the approved high voltage symbol.

2.19.2

Covers that can be reached by Solar EV occupants while driving must be designed to exclude objects
larger than 1mm diameter (Ingress Protection rating IPXXD).

2.19.3

All high voltage covers must be designed to exclude fingers (Ingress Protection rating IPXXB).

2.19.4

The resistance between any exposed conductive part and each terminal of the energy storage system
must exceed 100 V ohms, where V is the nominal voltage of the energy storage system.

2.19.5

The resistance between any exposed conductive part and each terminal of every solar cell must
exceed 100 V ohms, where V is the maximum circuit voltage of the solar collector.

2.19.6

Exposed carbon fibre is considered to be an exposed conductive part and so must be isolated from
the energy storage system and from the solar collector.
Teams should regularly check that there is no electrical breakdown between either side of the energy storage
system and any exposed conductive part, or between or any part of the solar collector and any exposed
conductive part.

2.20 Electrical Safe State

2.20.1

The Solar EV must have a Safe State which minimises the risk of electrical fire and electric shock to
occupants, team members, emergency response personnel or bystanders.

2.20.2

When in the Safe State:

All conductors emerging from the energy storage packs must be galvanically isolated from
the energy storage devices inside those packs.

No conductors emerging from the energy storage packs or solar collector may carry high
voltage, even though galvanically isolated.

All conductors emerging from the solar array must be isolated from all circuitry in the rest of
the car by one or more a mechanical switches or contactors.

If the solar control electronics (such as MPPTs) are physically close to the solar cells, teams may request
permission from the Chief Scrutineer to deem these components to be part of the solar collector. Requests for
such approval (which must include electrical diagrams and fitment drawings) must be submitted no later than 30
March 2015 in order that the Draft Group A Documentation deadline may be met.

2.20.3

All wires, connectors and electronics modules (such as MPPTs) which remain at high voltage when in
Safe State must be double insulated.

Page | 20

World Solar Challenge

Double insulated components must meet the AS3001/IEEE 100 (UNECE100) definition of double insulation as
comprising both basic insulation and supplementary insulation. A single layer of reinforced insulation is also
acceptable. The surfaces of a photovoltaic cell are deemed to be double insulated if properly encapsulated.
Unencapsulated surfaces of pv cells, interconnects and associated wiring must be double insulated.

2.20.4

All mechanisms for placing the Solar EV into Safe State and maintaining Safe State must employ
mechanical switches or Normally Open contactors designed to be fail-safe; if an electrical activation
mechanism fails, the Solar EV must automatically place itself into Safe State immediately, and must
remain in Safe State indefinitely

2.20.5

The driver must be able to place the Solar EV into Safe State while seated in the normal driving
position and without releasing the seatbelt.

2.20.6

Contactors and switches must be rated to break dc fault currents.

2.20.7

For emergency use, an activation device that immediately places the Solar EV into Safe State must be
provided on the exterior of the car. The activation device must be placed within a yellow disc with a
minimum diameter of 180mm. Also in the yellow disk must be a blue equilateral triangle (minimum
side length 150 mm) containing a red flash, with the legend Emergency Electrical Isolation. In
addition, there must be a clear instruction on how to operate the device (e.g. PULL or PRESS).

2.20.8

The yellow isolation disk containing the activation mechanism must be clearly visible to a person
standing next to the car. If the windscreen is central or on the left of the Solar EV then the yellow disk
must be on the left side of the windscreen and within 50mm of the base of the windscreen; if the
windscreen is on the right of the Solar EV then the yellow disk must be on the right side of the
windscreen and within 50mm of the base of the windscreen.

2.21 Energy sources

2.21.1

For Challenger Class and Adventure Class Solar EVs, solar irradiation received directly by the Solar EV
is the only external energy source that may be used by the Solar EV.

2.21.2

For Cruiser Class, solar irradiation received directly by the Solar EV, or the electricity supplied at the
designated charging location, are the only external energy sources that may be used by the Solar EV.

2.21.3

Devices used to concentrate solar irradiance may be used, provided that they are a permanent part of
the Solar EV and the configuration of the car does not exceed the dimensions specified in Regulation
2.2.1

2.21.4

With the exception of a power cord required to connect a Cruiser Class Solar EV to an external power
source, any items or equipment required while charging must either be part of, or carried by, the solar
EV.

2.21.5

For Cruiser Class, the safety requirements for any device used to recharge the energy storage system
are:

World Solar Challenge

Page | 21

the charger must be suitable for use with an Australian standard 10A 230V 50Hz single phase
power outlet

a Residual Current Device must be used

the charger output must be either permanently wired to the Solar EV high voltage system, or
connect to the energy storage system using an appropriate connector

the charger output must be electrically isolated from the ac input

the charger must stop charging automatically when the energy storage system is fully charged

the battery monitoring system must operate while charging.

Australian electricity supply is 230Vac, 50Hz. A domestic outlet can supply up to 10A; 15A outlets may be
available at some caravan parks. 15A plugs have a wider earth pin than 10A plugs, and cannot be used in 10A
sockets. Residual Current Devices may not be present on older supply circuits in Australia.

2.21.6

For Challenger Class and Cruiser Class Solar EVs, if the solar collector uses photovoltaic cells then the
allowable area of photovoltaic cells is:

not more than 6.000 square metres for Solar EVs using only silicon photovoltaic cells

not more than 3.000 square metres for Solar EVs using only GaAs photovoltaic cells.

Challenger Class and Cruiser Class Teams wishing to use other types of photovoltaic cells, a mix of photovoltaic
cell types, or other types of solar collector, must contact the Organiser.

2.21.7

The area of photovoltaic cells will be determined by summing the exposed surface area of the
component photovoltaic cells. Teams must supply sufficient information to enable the scrutineers to
determine compliance with this regulation. The minimum requirement is:

documentation showing the make, model, type, size and number of component cells

calculations summing the total area, calculated to four significant figures

a drawing, with dimensions, of the cells as fitted to the Solar EV

a written declaration by a licensed professional in the country of origin (e.g. a professional

licensed consulting engineer) that the solar collector complies with this regulation.

2.22 Energy storage

2.22.1

The configuration and characteristics of all energy storage devices must be declared, described in the
compulsory documentation and approved by the Chief Energy Scientist.

2.22.2

Batteries used only to:

power a real time clock when the Solar EV is turned off; or

retain data when the Solar EV is turned off; or

power wireless sensors such as tyre pressure monitors

are not considered to be part of the energy storage system.

2.22.3

The total energy capacity of cells allowed by Regulation 2.22.2 must not exceed 2.0Wh.

Page | 22

World Solar Challenge

2.22.4

Cells allowed by Regulation 2.22.2 may not be replaced or recharged from an external source, but
they may be removed if it is unsafe to leave them in the Solar EV.

2.22.5

OEM batteries or cells inside devices such as handheld radios, cameras, mobile telephones or
wristwatches that are carried by the driver are not considered to be part of the energy storage system
provided that they are not electrically connected to the Solar EV, its instrumentation or control
systems.

2.22.6

Instrumentation required to meet Regulation 2.15 must be powered from the Solar EV.

2.22.7

Capacitors are not considered to be part of the energy storage system if their total energy storage
capacity is less than 10.0Wh. Such capacitors must automatically discharge to less than 60V within
five seconds of the Solar EV being placed in the Safe State.

2.22.8

All other energy storage devices are considered part of the energy storage system.
Low voltage power for instrumentation and control may be provided from a dcdc converter powered from the
energy storage system.

2.22.9

For Challenger Class and Adventure Class Solar EVs, if the energy storage system is a secondary
electrochemical battery then the sum of the nominal cell masses, as specified and endorsed by the
cell manufacturer and approved by the Chief Energy Scientist, may not exceed the following limits:

Li-ion

20.000 kg

Li-Polymer

20.000 kg

LiFePO4

40.000 kg

Ni-MH

70.000 kg

Pb-Acid

125.000 kg.

2.22.10 For Cruiser Class Solar EVs, if the energy storage system is a secondary electrochemical battery then
the sum of the nominal cell masses, as specified and endorsed by the cell manufacturer and approved
by the Chief Energy Scientist, may not exceed the following limits:

Li-ion

60.000 kg

Li-Polymer

60.000 kg

LiFePO4

120.000 kg.

Entrants are advised to note that, when ordering cells, there is a requirement for a manufacturers endorsement
in the form of a signed statement confirming the mass of the cell to accompany the consignment. A generic data
sheet downloaded from the internet is not acceptable. Further information will be provided to registered
Entrants.

2.22.11 Teams wishing to use an energy storage system not covered by the Regulations above must contact
the Organiser. The allowable configuration, mass, and any other requirements, will be determined by
the Chief Energy Scientist.
2.22.12 If the energy storage system is an electrochemical battery, the Solar EV must be equipped with a
battery monitoring system designed to detect any component cell becoming overcharged,
undercharged, or too hot. The mechanisms for detecting and handling out-of-range voltages, currents
and temperatures must be specified in detail in the Battery Incident Plan.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 23

Other types of energy storage system must have equivalent safety systems designed to prevent
uncontrolled release of energy.
2.22.13 Cells must not be removed from an energy storage pack unless it is to mitigate a hazardous situation.
Cells may not be replaced or substituted with additional cells. With the exception of cells allowed by
Regulation 2.22.2, any cells removed must be replaced by ballast of equal or greater mass. If a cell or
module fails, it may be bypassed.
2.22.14 The energy storage system must not exceed two packs.
2.22.15 Energy storage packs must be designed so that they are in a Safe State when removed.
2.22.16 Energy storage packs must be constructed so that each pack can be sealed using tamper-evident
plastic seals, similar to 3mm 100mm plastic cable ties. With seals fitted, it must not be possible to
remove any cell from a pack without breaking the seal. Seals will be provided and fitted by the
Organiser at Static Scrutineering.
2.22.17 Energy storage packs must be securely fixed to the Solar EV, such that the battery will be restrained in
a 20G acceleration.
Cable ties will not meet this requirement.
2.22.18 Chemical spill-proof barriers must exist between the Solar EV occupants and any energy storage pack
that could spill liquids if damaged.
2.22.20 Energy storage packs must be provided with a ventilation system that will vent any dangerous gases
released from a damaged battery to the exterior of the Solar EV, to the rear of any occupant
ventilation intake.
2.22.21 Challenger and Cruiser Class entrants must provide a lockable box suitable for energy storage pack
impound.

2.23 Roadworthiness
2.23.1

Each Team is responsible for the roadworthiness of its Solar EV. By submitting an entry, the Entrant
declares the Solar EVs integrity and suitability for the Event.

2.23.2

The Entrant acknowledges that the scrutineering process will determine only whether the Solar EV
complies with the Regulations.

2.23.3

The Organiser makes no representation that compliance with the provisions of these regulations will
mean that the structural, mechanical or systems integrity of the entrant vehicle is safe, roadworthy,
or fit for the purpose of participating in the Event.

2.23.4

The Entrant must present a Roadworthiness Certificate, on the approved template and endorsed by a
professional licensed consulting engineer in the home country of the Entrant, that the Solar EV has
the structural integrity and roadworthiness characteristics suitable for the event.

2.23.5

The Roadworthiness Certificate must be presented to the Road Transport Authority at the time of
scrutineering and in support of any application for pre-Event testing permits made to an Australian
Road Transport Authority.

2.23.6

The Bridgestone World Solar Challenge is an extreme endurance event. To complete the event in the
available timeframe an average minimum progress of 500 km per day is required. Solar EVs unable to
keep up with this may be invited to either withdraw, or be carried forwards on a trailer.

Page | 24

World Solar Challenge

Teams wishing to build Cruiser Class Solar EVs that can be registered for general on-road use should
consult the road transport authority in their own country to determine any additional requirements.

Section 3 The Adventure

3.1

Safety

3.1.1

The Team Manager must appoint a Safety Officer to be responsible for the general safety of the
Team.

3.1.2

The Team Manager must appoint a Battery Officer to be responsible for the safe operation of the
battery and supervising response to any battery emergency.

3.1.3

Battery incident response equipment (see Regulation 3.4.1) must be readily available to any vehicle
carrying Solar EV batteries.

3.1.4

Each Team must have at least one member holding a recognised first-aid certificate, current for the
duration of the Event.

3.1.5

It is the responsibility of each Team to ensure that the vehicles under their control are maintained in a
safe, roadworthy condition and operated safely and within the law at all times.

3.1.6

All Solar EVs and Escort Vehicles are operated and driven at the Teams own risk.

3.1.7

A Team may be excluded from the Event at any time if, in the opinion of a Red-Shirt Official, it is or
has been operating the Solar EV, Escort Vehicles, or any other vehicles in an unsafe manner.

3.1.8

Teams must look after the health and safety of their team members. Fatigue and dehydration are
serious hazards in this Event. This is especially relevant to all drivers, particularly those of Solar EVs.

3.1.9

Drivers, Team Members, Officials and Observers are to be drug free and maintain a 0% blood alcohol
level whilst engaged in any duties associated with the Event.

3.2

Seatbelts

3.2.1

The use of seatbelts is mandatory for all occupants of motor vehicles in Australia, including Solar EVs
and support vehicles. The seatbelt requirements for the Solar EV are detailed in Regulation 2.7.

3.3

Helmets

3.3.1

Occupants of Solar EVs must wear helmets that meet DOT or ISO standards for motorcycle helmets.
(as demonstrated by displaying a recognised compliance/approval marking).

3.3.2

Helmets may not be modified, have unauthorised attachments or be used in any manner contrary to
the manufacturers instructions.

3.4

Safety Equipment

3.4.1

Suitable and appropriate safety equipment must be carried at all times. The minimum safety
equipment that must be carried in the Rear Escort Vehicle is:

first-aid kit (see the Team Managers Guide for suggested contents)

World Solar Challenge

Page | 25

safety glasses and gloves for handling batteries

2 (min) hazard warning cones

yellow warning flag, minimum size 300 mm x 300 mm

suitable fire extinguishers, fire blankets, sand (or similar material) and suitable containers for
damaged electrochemical cells

safety vests

a whistle.

3.5

Support Vehicles

3.5.1

Each Team must supply a Front and a Rear Escort Vehicle, a means of transporting the Solar EV, and
sufficient additional vehicles to transport and support their Team and equipment during the Event.

3.5.2

The minimum requirement for transporting the Solar EV is a suitable truck or trailer, which must
accompany the Team throughout the journey.
Many vehicle rental companies in Australia require the hirer and all drivers to be at least 23 years of age. Oneway interstate rentals may not be possible. Trailers, in particular, should be booked early.

3.5.3

Each Solar EV must, at all times when in motion on the route, be accompanied by two Escort
Vehiclesone immediately in front of the Solar EV and one immediately behind the Solar EV.

3.5.4

A minimum of two drivers must be available for every vehicle associated with the Team.

3.5.5

The Rear Escort Vehicle must not be a bus, truck or large campervan, or be towing a trailer.
The need for Regulation 3.5.5 is based on the identification of the perceived hazard. If traffic approaching from
behind sees a large vehicle with a flashing light, and the immediate perception is that that vehicle itself is the
hazard, not the Solar EV it is protecting. There is a high risk that such scenario may lead to a member of the public
overtaking a large Rear Escort Vehicle only to encounter a previously unseen Solar EV.

3.6

Escort Vehicle Signage

3.6.1

All Team vehicles must carry a sign, visible from 30m to the rear, stating the name and Team Number
of the Team to which they belong.

3.6.2

All Team Vehicles equipped with CB radio must carry a sign, visible from 30m to the rear, advising the
CB channel number in use.

3.6.3

A warning sign not less than 900mm x 300mm with black lettering on a yellow background, clearly
visible from a distance of 30m, must be displayed on the rear of the Rear Escort Vehicle, stating
CAUTION: SOLAR VEHICLE AHEAD

3.6.4

No vehicle other than the Rear Escort Vehicle may carry such a sign.

3.6.5

Front and Rear Escort Vehicles must be fitted with amber flashing lights visible from all directions
from a distance of at least 200m in daylight. Flashing amber lights must not be obscured by signs or
other equipment on the roof of an Escort Vehicle.
Beacons designed as warning devices for industrial equipment are unlikely to meet the visibility requirement.

Page | 26

World Solar Challenge

3.7

Communication

3.7.1

Every Solar EV must have means of two-way voice radio communication with its Rear Escort Vehicle
when driving.

3.7.2

Each Team must carry a satellite telephone, and notify the Organiser of its number. This notification
will be required at Registration. An external antenna is usually required when using a satellite
telephone in a vehicle.

3.7.3

The Front and Rear Escort Vehicles (at least) for each Solar EV must have a UHF CB radio with a
minimum of 40 channels, minimum power of 1W, and compliant with Australian Standards. Teams
must monitor the channel they have been assigned at all times while on the road, to facilitate
communication with other teams and officials.
UHF CB refers to equipment operating in the 477MHz band. 27MHz AM devices or hand-held devices with fewer
than 40 channels or devices with power less than 1W are not compliant with this regulation. Enquiries concerning
allowable frequencies for other equipment should be directed to the Australian Media and Communications
Authority (www.acma.gov.au).

3.8

Preparation and Testing

3.8.1

The Organiser will provide facilities for team preparation and track testing of Solar EVs at the Hidden
Valley Raceway in accordance with the dates listed in the Schedule.
Detailed arrangements will be published in the Team Managers Guide.

3.8.2

Australian workplace standards will apply to all activities (see www.worksafe.nt.gov.au).

3.8.3

The Organiser will appoint a Paddock Manager and a Track Controller to supervise the facility, whose
directions must be followed.

3.8.4

No test driving is to be conducted in the paddock, car park or access roads.

3.8.5

The track must not be accessed without clearance from the Track Controller.

3.8.6

Event penalties will apply for the inappropriate use of any motor vehicle.

3.8.7

The Organiser reserves the right to request a security deposit against damage, rubbish removal or
cleaning beyond reasonable expectations.

3.8.8

Teams electing to prepare their vehicles in other locations will be provided with temporary pit
facilities to assist their attendance at Dynamic Scrutineering.

3.8.9

Any Team driving a Solar EV on a public road without a permit is liable to civil penalties and exclusion
from the Event.
We are working through changes to Northern Territory legislation with the relevant department of NT
Government. Although there are some outstanding issues to be resolved there is a willingness to help
and we are confident of a positive outcome. Once the requirements and procedures have been
agreed, all registered teams will be notified.

3.9

Team Registration and Scrutineering

3.9.1

All participants are required to attend with their team to complete the registration process, and
present their Solar EV for the scrutineering process. The scrutineering process is divided into Static
and Dynamic operations.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 27

3.9.2

Team Registration and Static Scrutineering will take place at the Royal Darwin Showground (Foskey
Pavilion) or such other place as determined by the Organiser at the time and date described in the
Schedule.

3.9.3

Teams must attend Registration and Static Scrutineering with:

the Team Manager, and an interpreter if required

all Solar EV drivers, with their driving licences and their driver training log books

any waiver documents required by Regulation 1.13.10

all Solar EV passengers

the Safety Officer

the Battery Officer

the Solar EV, in a ready-to-start condition

Front and Rear Escort Vehicles, including any trailer that may be attached to the Front Escort
Vehicle, in a ready-to-start condition

the Solar EV trailer or Solar EV transport truck they intend to use in the event

The battery charger to be used during the Event (Cruiser Class only)

tools and personnel required to facilitate inspection of the Solar EV

a list of all vehicles associated with the team, including make, model, colour and registration
number

Group D compulsory documentation

a spare Solar EV tyre of each type

a sample battery cell (if cells inside the energy storage packs are not clearly visible)

the lockable box in which energy storage packs can be impounded where required.

3.9.4

Solar EVs must be transported to Scrutineering on the Solar EV trailer or truck that will be used during
the Event.

3.9.5

The Team Manager must attend all Registration and Scrutineering stations. A Team Manager not
proficient in English must provide an interpreter to accompany them at all times during this process.

3.9.6

All Team Members must complete their online registration by signing in at Registration.

3.10 Static Scrutineering

3.10.1

Static Scrutineering will check for compliance with the Regulations, and will include a regulatory
compliance and roadworthiness inspection by the Northern Territory Road Transport Authority.

3.10.2

Qualification must be achieved in road-ready configuration. Vehicles unable to present at the

designated time, or which are not ready to start, may fail to qualify.

Page | 28

World Solar Challenge

3.10.3

Up to seven members of a team (including an interpreter and any team media personnel) may
accompany the Solar EV on the scrutineering floor. Team members may be substituted between
inspection stations.
Some dismantling (i.e. removal of array or top shell) will be required to facilitate inspection of the
following components:

mechanical systems (including seats, tyres, brakes, steering)

electrical systems

energy storage system

Road transport authority inspection (including presentation of roadworthiness certificate).

Checks and inspections with the Solar EV in a road-ready configuration will include:

signage

Solar EV size

solar collector type and size

egressall Solar EV drivers and passengers are required

visionall Solar EV drivers are required

lights, indicators and horn.

Turning circle

3.10.4

Dismantling and reassembly of the Solar EV required to facilitate inspection of the Solar EV must be
conducted (in the sole opinion of the Chief Scrutineer) in a reasonable time.

3.10.5

All energy storage devices must be declared at Static Scrutineering. Failure to declare any energy
storage device will lead to disqualification.

3.10.6

The mass of each Solar EV driver or passenger, with helmet and driving clothes, will be determined at
scrutineering. If the mass of a driver or passenger is less than 80kg, ballast provided by the Organiser
will be added to make up the difference. No credit will be given if a driver or passenger weighs more
than 80kg.
Deliberate consumption of excessive food and drink prior to weigh-in is not in keeping with the spirit of the
competition and may be hazardous to the health of the individual.

3.10.7

Drivers and passengers may be weighed at any time during the Event. Changes in weight considered
unreasonable by the Chief Medical Officer will be referred to the Clerk of the Course.

3.10.8

Non-compliance penalties may be imposed at the absolute discretion of the Chief Scrutineer, and may
include Failure to Qualify.

3.11 Dynamic Scrutineering

Dynamic Scrutineering exercises will be conducted involving speed, stability and braking capability of
the Solar EV.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 29

3.11.1

Dynamic Scrutineering will be held at the Hidden Valley Motorsport Complex, or such other place as
determined by the Organiser.

3.11.2

No Solar EV may be submitted for Dynamic Scrutineering without having first passed Static
Scrutineering.

3.11.3

No Solar EV will be given permission to start until it has passed Dynamic Scrutineering. Any Solar EV
failing Dynamic Scrutineering will only be permitted to re-present at the absolute discretion of the
Chief Scrutineer.

3.11.4

Dynamic Scrutineering will close at 13:00 Saturday 17th October.

3.12 Modifications or Changes after Scrutineering

3.12.1

Once a Solar EV and its drivers have passed Static Scrutineering, no changes to the design or
configuration of the Solar EV (that is, to any items described in the compulsory documentation) or
changes to drivers will be permitted.

3.12.2

Once a Solar EV has passed Dynamic Scrutineering, no component exchange, modification or repair of
the Solar EV is permitted without the approval of the Chief Scrutineer until after the Official Start.

3.12.3

The Organiser reserves the right to impose Parc Ferme conditions between scrutineering and the
start line on any Solar EV.

3.13 Briefings
3.13.1

A compulsory Team Manager meeting will be held in Darwin on Monday, 12 October at a time and
place to be advised.
This briefing is for Team Managers only. Team Managers not proficient in English may be
accompanied by an interpreter.

3.13.2

A compulsory safety and procedural briefing will be held for the benefit of each team.
All team members must attend the specific briefing that will be held as the concluding activity of each Teams
registration and static scrutineering process. It is essential that all members of the Team are present.
Teams unable to meet this requirement may fail to qualify.

3.14 Observers
3.14.1

The Organiser will appoint an Observer to travel with each Team. (see Regulation 1.10.1)

3.14.2

Observers may be changed at any time throughout the Event.

3.14.3

The Observer's responsibilities are:

to record the locations and times that Teams start and stop

to record the locations and times of all activities and incidents that may affect the outcome of the
Event

to check that the correct ballast (as described in Regulation 3.25.2) is in place following each
driver or passenger change

to be satisfied that the energy storage system cannot be charged or interfered with between
sunset and sunrise, except as allowed for Cruiser Class Solar EVs

Page | 30

World Solar Challenge

to notify a Red-Shirt Official at the earliest opportunity if energy storage cells or modules have
been changed or an energy storage system seal broken, if any breach of regulation has occurred,
or if they have concerns about the actions of the Team.

3.14.4

Observers, as Judges of Fact, may not interpret regulations or give advice to Teams.

3.14.5

Each Teams responsibilities to the Observer are:

3.14.6

to assist the Observer in their duties at all times

to provide reasonable food for the Observer at least three times a day, and such drinking water
as the Observer may require

to never leave the Observer alone with the Solar EV

if requested by the Observer, to send for assistance from the Organiser or transmit information
to Mission Control

to provide a proper seat in the Rear Escort Vehicle

to provide space for the Observer's luggage in the Rear Escort Vehicle.

Each Team must allocate the front passenger seat of the Rear Escort Vehicle to the Observer. This
includes fair and reasonable space with, for example, the foot well not being filled with computer
equipment such that the passenger space is restricted.

3.15 Start Line and Grid

3.15.1

The Ceremonial Start of the Event will be held in State Square, Darwin, from 08:15 on Sunday 18
October 2015, or such other place and time as the Clerk of the Course may direct.

3.15.2

Starting position will be determined by Class and performance during Dynamic Scrutineering.

3.15.3

Compliance with the detailed procedural instructions (issued in Darwin), will be mandatory.

3.15.4

All Solar EVs must be in their starting grid position by the appointed time for final inspections.

3.15.5

Any Solar EV not present will have their start time amended.

3.15.6

Teams may not work on their Solar EVs on the start grid.

3.15.7

Two team members must stay with the Solar EV on the start grid to assist officials with final
inspections.

3.15.8

Front and Rear Escort Vehicles must be in their designated places by 08:00.

3.15.9

Escort Vehicles must be in position with the Solar EV before entering public roads. Solar EVs which
have left the Start Line and whose Escort Vehicles are not able or not ready to merge will be directed
to return to the start area.
Team Managers should recognise the fact that it is not a realistic expectation for escort vehicle crew
members to be able to witness the start and re-join their vehicle to make a timely departure.

3.16 Energy collection

3.16.1

Charging the energy storage system from an unauthorised source will lead to exclusion from the
Event.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 31

3.16.2

Cruiser Class Solar EVs may choose to recharge in Alice Springs. The recharge energy will be deemed
to be equal to the capacity of the energy storage system.
The Organiser will use its best endeavours to ensure the provision of a dedicated 10A (230Vac 50 Hz
single phase) power outlet for each Cruiser Class Team in Alice Springs. It is the responsibility of the
Team to satisfy themselves that such arrangements are suitable for their needs. Cruiser Class Teams
may make other arrangements for charging in Alice Springs.

3.16.3

External devices intended to increase the irradiance on the solar collector must not be used at any
time.

3.16.4

From the official start of the on-road component of the Event until finish or withdrawal, the energy
storage system may never be removed from the Observers control.

3.17 Route
3.17.1

The event course will be the major highways between Darwin, Northern Territory, and Adelaide,
South Australiaa distance of approximately 3000 km.

3.17.2

One printed copy of Official Route Notes will be provided to each registered Team. Additional copies
will be available for download at www.worldsolarchallenge.org from September 2015.

3.17.3

Mandatory control stops will be established along the route.

3.17.4

Any detour signs erected by the civil authorities must be observed and the correct route rejoined at
the first opportunity.

3.17.5

The Organiser may change the course at any time.

3.18 Stages
3.18.1

The Challenger Class will be timed in a single stage between Darwin and Adelaide.

3.18.2

Cruiser Class and Adventure Class will be timed in two stages: Darwin to Alice Springs, and Alice
Springs to Adelaide.

3.19 Timing
3.19.1

Timing is under the control of the Chief Timekeeper assisted by Officials and Observers.

3.19.2

The Official Start Time on Day 1 for each Class is the time that the first Solar EV in the Class departs
the Start Line.

3.19.3

The Official Start Time each day after Day 1 is 08:00.

3.19.4

The Official Finish Time each day is 17:00.

3.19.5

Cruiser Class may have daily start/finish times amended by operational conditions, or advised by the
Cruiser Class Manager.

3.19.6

A penalty of one minute will be imposed for each minute taken past Official Finish Time, up to and
including 10 minutes past the Official Finish Time. Beyond 10 minutes, each additional minute will
attract a two minute penalty. Time penalties incurred in this manner will determine an adjustment of
the Official Start Time the following day.

Page | 32

World Solar Challenge

Example: If a team finishes at 17:07 on Day 2, the Official Start Time for Day 3 will be adjusted to 08:07. If a team
finishes at 17:13 on Day 2, the Official Start Time for Day 3 will be adjusted by 1 10 + 2 3 minutes to 08:16.

3.19.7

A Solar EV starting before its Official Start Time will be subject to a penalty of 2 minutes for each
offending minute.

3.20 Tracking
3.20.1

Each Solar EV will be required to carry a data logging and tracking device provided by the Organiser.
Provision must be made for a box, maximum dimensions l= 200mm x w=150mm x h=100mm, to be
fitted in the Solar EV. The upper face of the box will require a minimum 1.6 steradian view of the
sky through a minimum 125mm diameter circular window made of a radio-transparent material. The
mass of the unit will not exceed 5kg.

3.20.2

Information concerning progress and operation of the Solar EV may be publicised during the Event.

3.20.3

Satellite tracking data will not be accepted as basis for inter-team protests.
The data logger will be self-powered. It will not require any electrical connection from the Solar EV. The unit will
be installed during scrutineering, however to ensure adequate space has been provided, it is strongly advised that
a mock data logger box is manufactured to the dimensions shown in the diagram, and model the radio
transparency of antennae window in the chosen location. This may be further proved on a completed vehicle by
observing the correct operation of any commercially available GPS receiver.

3.21 Driving Conduct

3.21.1

Each Team must ensure that all vehicles associated with their attendance at the Event are driven in a
careful and courteous manner at all times. The Organiser reserves the right to determine if any
individual is acting de facto as a part of a Team.

3.21.2

The Front and Rear Escort Vehicles must have their amber flashing lights operating whenever they are
escorting the Solar EV. Support vehicles must not have amber flashing lights operating if they are not
(directly) escorting the Solar EV.

3.21.3

Push starting the Solar EV during competition time is not allowed. A Solar EV considered to be in a
hazardous situation may be pushed to a place of safety, providing the activity is recorded by the
Observer.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 33

3.21.4

The Front Escort Vehicle must, whilst travelling on the open road, maintain a distance not greater
than 500m, and not less than 2 seconds in front of the Solar EV. The Solar EV must be allowed a safe
stopping distance appropriate to the speed and conditions prevailing.

3.21.5

Whilst travelling on the open road, the Rear Escort Vehicle must be not less than 2 seconds and not
more than 5 seconds behind the Solar EV, and must at all times maintain a safe stopping distance
appropriate to the speed and conditions prevailing.

3.21.6

Solar EVs may not travel between sunset and sunrise.

3.21.7

The Solar EV may not, during Event hours, be pushed, or towed, or carried forward on another
vehicle, unless in compliance with the provisions of Regulation 3.22, or abnormal circumstances
prevail.
It is the responsibility of each Team to operate the Solar EV safely at all times. Teams may take whatever action
they consider appropriate to any given situation, including pushing or towing the Solar EV to safety. It is the duty
of the Observer to record the details of such matters, and bring them to the attention of a Red-Shirt Official.

3.21.8

Regenerative power systems must not be on when pushing or towing the Solar EV, under
circumstances where pushing or towing is allowed outside of competition hours.

3.21.9

Teams must comply with any requirements imposed by Road Traffic Authorities, Police, or Event
Officials.

3.21.10 Solar EVs, Escort vehicles and other team vehicles may be subject to scrutineering at any time during
the Event to ensure compliance with the Regulations.

3.22 Trailering
Rather than withdraw or face exclusion, trailering allows teams whose Solar EV is unable to make reasonable
progress to maximise their World Solar Challenge experience. The term trailer applies to any means of transport
used to carry the Solar EV.

3.22.1

A Team electing to trailer must carry their Solar EV forward to the next Control Stop.

3.22.2

Trailering may occur only between sunrise and sunset.

3.22.3

The Control Stop departure time of any Team who has trailered will be determined by the Clerk of the
Course. (A Team who has trailered to a control stop may be held to allow any Team who has not
trailered to pass).

3.22.4

Teams who have trailered their Solar EV will be credited with the length of the course driven in the
Solar EV.

3.22.5

The Clerk of the Course may impose any other arrangements appropriate to particular circumstances.

3.23 Stopping
3.23.1

No Team vehicle may stop on the road unless required by traffic conditions.

3.23.2

When stopped adjacent to a road, all wheels of all vehicles must be clear of the road.

3.23.3

Wherever possible, vehicles must be parked, and all team activity must occur, at least 10m from the
edge of the road.

Page | 34

World Solar Challenge

3.23.4

Where any activity takes place less than 2 m from the road a Team Member must be placed, in a place
of safety, to warn approaching traffic using a yellow flag, and to warn the Team of approaching traffic
using a whistle.

3.24 Obstructing other road users

3.24.1

Vehicles associated with a Team must not obstruct other road users. Infringement of this regulation
will incur an automatic time penalty of 10 minutes per incident. Repeated infringement (>3) will lead
to exclusion from the Event.

3.24.2

All vehicles associated with a Team, with the exception of the Front and Rear Escort Vehicles, must
keep a minimum of 500m from the Solar EV and each other whilst travelling on the open road, so
that vehicles can be safely overtaken one at a time.

3.24.3

Where two or more Solar EVs are travelling less than 500 m apart, all Team vehicles with the
exception of the Front and Rear Escort Vehicles, must move to allow the competing vehicles and their
escorts to proceed unhindered.

3.25 Solar EV drivers and passengers

3.25.1

Only registered Solar EV drivers may drive the Solar EV during Event hours.

3.25.2

When driving, the correct driver and passenger ballast must be carried in the Solar EV and be placed
within 300mm of the corresponding seating position.

3.26 Control Stops

3.26.1

Control Stop Officials:

At each Control Stop, a Control Stop Manager will be responsible for all traffic management,
recording of arrival and departure times, and ensuring that the control stop regulations are
followed.

A Competitor Relations Officer will ensure that the documentation presented by the arriving
Observer is complete, and has been signed by the Team Manager. The Competitor Relations
Officer will provide any updated information and is delegated by the Clerk of the Course to advise
the imposition of any penalties, accept any appeals or protests, and advise on the outcome of any
appeal or protest lodged at a previous Control Stop.

The Competitor Relations Officer is the only Control Stop Official empowered to liaise with the Team Manager
concerning the competition. Beyond acknowledging receipt of any protest and administering any penalty imposed
by the Clerk of the Course, they are not delegated to enter into any discussion on such matters.

A Volunteer Relations Officer will be responsible to the Event Manager for the welfare and
deployment of Official Observers and other volunteers engaged by the Event.

3.27 Control Stop activities

3.27.1

Control Stop Time commences from the time the Solar EV enters the site.

3.27.2

All site speed restrictions must be obeyed.

3.27.3

Teams must obey all directions of the Control Stop Manager. When at a Control Stop, the Solar EV
must at all times be able to be moved immediately if directed to do so by the Control Stop Manager.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 35

3.27.4

When at a Control Stop no repair or maintenance tasks of any kind are permitted.

3.27.5

Solar EVs may not be reconfigured such that the allowable dimensions are exceeded while charging.

3.27.6

Solar collectors may be cooled, but only by use of a hand operated spray containing ambient
temperature water

3.28 Withdrawal
3.28.1

Any team may withdraw by handing a withdrawal form, signed by the Team Manager, to a Red-Shirt
Official or Competitor Relations Officer. Once the withdrawal has been accepted, the Solar EV may be
transported to Adelaide to take part in the displays and the Awards Ceremony.

3.29 Overnight stops

3.29.1

The selection (and any cost) of overnight stops is the responsibility of each Team.

3.31.2

At overnight stops, the Solar EV and all other vehicles must be parked in such a manner that they, and
all team activities, are conducted at least 10 metres from the edge of any road.

3.29.3

If a Team's overnight camp is not immediately adjacent to the road, a marker cone must be placed on
the roadside adjacent to point the Team exited the official route.

3.29.4

The Observer, with the Team Manager, must place a mark on the road to indicate the position at
which the Solar EV stopped. The mark will be the starting line for the following morning.

3.29.5

Except for Cruiser Class Solar EVs recharging at Alice Springs, removable energy storage packs must be
impounded between sunset and sunrise by placing them in the lockable container supplied by the
Team.

3.29.6

The energy storage pack container must be placed under the control of, and in a position acceptable
to, the Observer.

3.29.7

With the exception of a Cruiser Class Solar EV recharging at Alice Springs, if a Cruiser or Adventure
Class Solar EV Team does not remove the energy storage packs, the whole Solar EV must be
impounded by the Observer between sunset and sunrise. No work of any kind may be performed on
the Solar EV during the impound time.

3.30 Penalties
3.30.1

Time Penalties
At any time during the Event, a Red-Shirt Official may issue a Fixed Penalty Notice requiring a 10
minute penalty to be taken.
Log books are reviewed by the Competitor Relations Officer at each Control Stop. Observer reports are regarded
as fact. Subsequent or serious contraventions will be referred to the Clerk of the Course for determination.

Fixed penalty notices may be issued for:

obstructing an overtaking vehicle

team vehicles travelling too close together

failing to get off the highway when stopped

Page | 36

World Solar Challenge

overnight activities too close to the road

repairs (including wheel or tyre changing) during a Control Stop

driving without Escort Vehicles

Escort Vehicles driving without visible flashing lights

driving without effective rear vision.

The 10 minute time penalty will be taken at the control stop nominated by the Red-Shirt Official.
Under the fixed penalty system no appeals will be accepted. However, Teams may elect to have the matter
referred to the Clerk of the Course for determination by lodging a notification with the Competitor Relations
Officer at the next available control stop. The determination will be communicated by the Competitor Relations
Officer at the next open Control Stop.

3.30.2

Penalties by Determination
Teams committing the following offences may be subject to a penalty determined by the Clerk of the
Course:

slip streaming, hand pushing or pressure wave pushing

obstructing an overtaking vehicle

failure to follow the route instructions

failure to observe a request by Police or Event Officials

wilful damage or interference to property

failing to get off the highway when stopped

failure to stop at a designated Control Stop

exceeding any posted speed limit

driving at less than 50km/h in areas with a speed limit of 100km/h or greater, when not
constrained by traffic

driving without adequate visibility, due to smoke, dust or rain.

In normal circumstances, time penalties must be served on the day of issue by extending the time spent in a
Control Stop. The Clerk of the Course may impose any other arrangements appropriate to particular
circumstances.

3.30.3

All time penalties must be served prior to crossing the finish line.

3.30.4

Exclusion
Entrants committing the following offences are liable to be excluded from the event:

wilful obstruction or aggressive driving

replacement of energy storage cells

removing the energy storage system from the Observer's care

World Solar Challenge

Page | 37

charging of the energy storage system from any source other than those approved at
scrutineering

wilful disregard of any regulations or the spirit of the Event

Driving the Solar EV without a Rear Escort Vehicle

misrepresentation

continued inability to maintain minimum progress .

Teams who have been excluded for inability to maintain minimum progress may transport their Solar EV to the
finish line, and take part in the display and closing ceremonies.

3.31 Protests and appeals

3.31.1

Any protest must be lodged with the Clerk of the Course (or any appointed delegate, normally a Red
Shirt or Competitor Relations Officer), in writing, within 12 hours of the incident giving rise thereto. A
protest fee of AU$200 will apply.

3.31.2

Any decision of a Red-Shirt Official may be appealed to the Clerk of the Course by lodgement with the
Organiser via Competitor Relations Officer of a written Notice of Appeal that details the grounds for
the appeal, within one hour of the handing down of the decision giving rise thereto. An appeal fee of
$200 will apply.

3.31.2

Any decision by the Clerk of the Course may be appealed to the Stewards by lodgement with the
Organiser via Competitor Relations Officer of a written Notice of Appeal that details the grounds for
the appeal, within one hour of the handing down of the decision giving rise thereto. An appeal fee of
$200 will apply.

3.31.3

The Chief Steward is empowered to convene a tribunal to consider any protest or appeal requiring
final resolution. The tribunal may take advice from any party. The decision of the Tribunal is final and
binding.

3.32 End of Timing

3.32.1

The Organiser will designate a location outside of the Adelaide urban area as an End of Timing
waypoint.
The intent is to mitigate the risk that the winner could be determined by lane congestion or other
traffic conditions.

3.32.2

To complete the course the Solar EV must reach the Finish Line by the designated route, under its
own power.
Solar EVs are expected to make reasonable progress with regard to prevailing traffic conditions. The
Metropolitan Traffic Control Centre will monitor and advise the Clerk of the Course of average travel times. In the
circumstances that more than one Solar EV is traversing the urban area, The Clerk of the Course may provide an
Official to observe progress. Where traffic conditions alone change the order of arrival in the city centre, the
order of finish will be determined by End of Timing waypoint.

3.32.3

Where the order of arrival determined by Regulation 3.32.1 is affected by any circumstances other
than traffic conditions (as advised by the Metropolitan Traffic Control Centre and/or the
determination of an Event Official), the order of finish will be determined by the Clerk of the Course.

3.32.4

A marshalling point will be established adjacent to the Finish Line.

Page | 38

World Solar Challenge

The purpose of the marshalling point is to separate the Solar EV from its escort vehicles, and provide
the opportunity to serve any outstanding time penalties.
3.32.5

Where the Clerk of the Course determines that a Team was unable to make reasonable progress
between the End of Timing and the marshalling point then that Team will have its Finishing Time
adjusted to be 1 minute behind that of any other Team that arrives at the marshalling point before it.

3.32.6

Teams unable to drive from the marshalling point to the Finish Line will have their Finish Time
adjusted as described in 3.32.4.

3.32.7

Teams that have not reached the Finish Line by 1700 (Event Time) must stop, mark their position, and
continue at 0800 (Event Time) the following morning as per normal procedure.

Section 4 - Achievement
4.1

Finish Line

4.1.1

The Official Finish Line will be in the City of Adelaide.

4.1.2

To be classed as a Finisher, a Solar EV must have completed the entire course in accordance with the
Regulations and cross the finish line.

4.1.3

Challenger Class and Adventure Class Teams that Finish will be ranked in increasing order of time
taken (including penalties). Challenger Class and Adventure Class teams that do not finish will be
ranked behind Finishing Teams in increasing order of distance travelled in the Solar EV.

4.1.4

Cruiser Class Teams will be ranked by Score (see Section 4.5). Finishing Cruiser Class Teams will be
ranked above non-finishing Cruiser Class Teams.

4.1.5

Finishing Solar EVs must be made available for public exhibition up to the time of the prize giving
ceremony, or such earlier time as the Organiser may determine.

4.2

Results

4.2.1

Results published throughout the duration of the event are considered provisional.

4.2.2

Results will only be considered final following the determination of any of outstanding protests and
appeals.

4.2.3

The winner of the World Solar Cup will be the highest ranked Challenge Class Team.

4.2.4

The winner of the Cruiser Class will be determined by the highest Score.

4.2.5

The highest ranked Adventure Class Team will receive and award.

4.3

Cruiser Class Scoring

4.3.1

Cruiser Score will be the weighted sum of four scores, depending on external energy use, Darwin
Adelaide time, person-kilometres, and practicality.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 39

4.3.2

The Cruiser Class score will be:

S = 15 E* / E + 70 T* / T + 5 D / D* + 10 P / P*
Where E is the external energy use, T is the time, D is the person-km distance, P is the practicality
score, and where E* is the minimum E of any Cruiser Class Finisher, T* is the minimum T of any
Cruiser Class Finisher, D* is the maximum D of any Cruiser Class Finisher, and P* is the maximum P of
any Cruiser Class Finisher.

4.3.2.1 Nominal external energy use of a Cruiser Solar EV will be calculated as E = (n + 1) q, where n is the
number of times the energy storage system is charged from external sources between the Start Line
and the Finish Line, and q is the nominal capacity of the energy storage system. The nominal capacity
of an electrochemical battery is the sum of the nominal cell masses divided by the allowable battery
mass multiplied by 15kWh; the nominal capacity of other types of energy storage system will be
determined by the Chief Energy Scientist.
4.3.2.2 Time T is the time taken to drive from the Start Line to the End of Timing waypoint, including any
penalty time but not including the time allocated for Control Stops.
4.3.2.3 Person-kilometre distance D is the sum of the distances travelled by drivers and passengers in the
Solar EV between the Start Line and the Finish Line. Passenger-kilometres will be counted for each
passenger seat that is occupied for a complete leg (between consecutive Control Stops).
4.3.2.4 Practicality P will be determined by a panel of judges, appointed by the Organiser.
The subjective nature of practicality judging intentionally brings an element of market analysis to the design
process, and gives the design team the real-world experience of determining what the end user (in this case guest
judges) may find attractive, and give the design a desirable point of difference.
Entrants will be invited to brief the judges on their design philosophy, which may include the desire to focus their
design effort on a particular market segment. The judges will be asked to examine a number of features of the
Solar EV, which may require demonstration of those features. Examples of features the judges might find
desirable include:

ease of access and egress

ease of operation

reliability

versatility

style

suitability for declared purpose.

A Cruiser Class Solar EV that has been granted an unconditional Road Registration (street legal) in the team's
home country will be highly regarded. Registration papers should be available for the judges scrutiny.

4.4

Awards

4.4.1

An awards ceremony will be held in Adelaide on Sunday 25 October 2015.

4.4.2

Each participating team will be provided with tickets commensurate with the number of registered
individuals up to a maximum of 20 tickets. Additional tickets (subject to the capacity of the venue)
may be purchased. Further details will be provided in the Team Managers Guide.

Page | 40

World Solar Challenge

4.4.3

Awards may be presented in the following categories:

the achievements of Evolution Class entrants will be recognised

the achievements of Adventure Class entrants will be recognised

a Safety Award will be presented to the team exhibiting safety awareness in theory and practice

the David Fewchuk Spirit of the Event award will be presented to an individual exhibiting the
qualities promoted by the World Solar Challenge

an Innovation Award will be made to the team presenting a concept which, in the opinion of the
judges, furthers the aims of the Event

each Entrant will receive a Participation Award

other achievements may be recognised through the presentation of an award.

4.4.4

The Organiser reserves the right not to present an award in any category.

4.4.5

All winning teams must make themselves available for an Official Media Call if so required.

4.5

Pack-Down Facilities

4.5.1

Open-air facilities will be made available for repacking Solar EVs for shipment. All containers and
equipment must be removed by close of business Wednesday 27 October 2015. Any remaining items
will be removed for storage at the Entrants expense.

World Solar Challenge

Page | 41

Glossary
ADRs

Australian Design Rules (for motor vehicles).

Battery

A multiple of electrochemical cells of the same chemistry, connected in series or in parallel,

and housed in a single container.

Battery module A battery unit manufactured as the basic component of a battery pack.
Battery pack

A number of batteries connected together to provide the required power and energy for a
given application.

Cell (electrochemical) A device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy by passing a current
(reverse flow of electrons) between a positive and a negative electrode.
Conditional Registration The authority to use public roads used by the Event, granted by the Northern
Territory road traffic authority.
Entrant

The legal entity that completes the Participation Agreement and requests a place in the
Event for one or more Teams. An Entrant is typically a Registered Institution, Organisation or
Commercial Entity.

Force Majeure

Circumstances beyond the control of the Organiser or Entrant. In the context of the World Solar
Challenge this does not automatically suggest cancellation or abandonment of the Event

ISO

International Standards Organisation.

Normal Driving Position Means that the driver (and passengers) are in the car, dressed as they would be for
the journey, including helmet(s), seat belts fastened and properly tensioned and doors
closed
Parc Ferme

Controlled impound of a competing vehicle. No work of any kind is permitted on a vehicle

impounded under Parc Ferme conditions.

Participant

A person who has registered to participate in the Event, as a member of a Team.

Primary battery An electrochemical battery (or cell) that contains a fixed amount of stored energy when
manufactured, and that cannot be recharged after that energy is withdrawn.
Secondary battery An electrochemical (or cell) that is capable of repeated charging and discharging.
Team

The group of people registered by the Entrant to work together on the common goal of
operating the Solar EV.

Team Manager The person in charge of, and responsible for, the actions of a Team.
Road-ready configuration The Solar EV completely assembled with the components and equipment that will
be presented at the Start Line.
UNECE

United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, the body charged by the UN to work
towards harmonised regulations for motor vehicles.
The design parameters for the 2015 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge are guided, in general terms, by
the intent of the UNECE harmonised regulations for individually constructed vehicles.

Page | 42

World Solar Challenge

Appendix 1 - Official Bulletins incorporated in this document

Regulation Bulletin 1/2014

Regulation 1.28 Media and Promotional Obligations

The commercial imperatives of protecting the interests of the event require that potential risks associated with
ambush marketing are identified and mitigated.
The following clauses have been added to Regulation 1.28

1.28.9 Teams or their sponsors shall not engage in any marketing or promotional activity that will materially
detract from the value and standing of the sponsors of the event.

1.28.10 Activity by sponsors of teams shall not imply ownership of the event.

1.28.11 Team Managers are responsible for the activities of their sponsors.

Issued Adelaide 23 September 2014

Chris Selwood
Event Director

World Solar Challenge

Page | 43

Page | 44

World Solar Challenge