~ Empowering the future of solar motor racing with cutting-edge motors and drives ~
Motor and drives specialist WEG Benelux has announced its sponsorship of the Innoptus Solar Team, a pioneering solar motor racing project from KU Leuven (KUL) University, Belgium. The project, led by a team of 13 Belgian engineering students, is globally recognised for developing high-performance solar cars that compete in international races. As part of this sponsorship, WEG Benelux has donated a W22 15kW motor and CFW900 drive to support the team’s development and testing processes.
The Solar Team, which recently won the prestigious 2024 Solar Challenge in South Africa, continues to push the boundaries of solar-powered racing, with WEG playing a crucial role in testing and optimising the team’s innovative new motor design. The WEG components will be used to create a high-performance test stand, allowing the Solar Team to measure and optimise the torque and efficiency of their self-developed motor. This sponsorship underlines WEG’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in electric mobility.
The technology provided by WEG includes the W22 motor and CFW900 drive, which together form a robust solution for testing the solar car’s custom-built motor. The CFW900 drive, equipped with advanced torque monitoring and Ethernet connectivity, enables precise adjustments to maximise motor performance. This integration helps the team test their innovative designs in a real-world, high-performance environment.
The collaboration between WEG Benelux and KUL University is built on a strong history of partnership, dating back over 15 years. Initially focused on motor testing, the relationship has evolved to support the cutting-edge technology developed by the students. WEG’s 15kW W22 motor, renowned for its energy efficiency and reliability, will act as a performance load in testing, allowing the team to push their motor to the limits under realistic conditions.
“This relationship highlights the vital connection between educational institutions and industry,” said Werner Joosens, sales engineer at WEG Benelux. “By working together, we’re not only supporting the Solar Team with high-performance equipment but also helping to foster the next generation of innovators. This partnership allows the team to test their custom-developed motor under extreme conditions, optimising their designs for future races.”
The partnership between WEG and KUL University reflects a shared commitment to advancing solar car designs. The Solar Team continues to innovate, using the latest in motor and drive technologies to power their solar car and WEG’s equipment ensures precise torque and performance testing, which is essential for the team’s competitive edge. With the solar car already a proven winner, WEG Benelux is excited to be part of the team’s continued success in 2025.
To learn more about the W22 motor and CFW900 drive, visit the WEG website.
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