Under the giant skies of the Australian Outback, a team from the University of Twente in the Netherlands in 2025 raced their solar-electric car for 3,000 kilometers – from Darwin in the north to Adelaide in the south – against the clock and in all weather conditions, challenging the limits of their innovative vehicle’s capabilities.

That team, Solar Team Twente, was formed back in 2001. Since then, it has continually evolved while its mission has remained the same: to build the world’s most efficient solar car. Now, after 25 years of designing vehicles, and winning races in global competitions, the team is transforming its strategy to drive that innovation further and stay competitive in the wider race to develop climate-friendly and future-proofed modes of transport.

Capgemini’s relationship with the team started in 2023. What began as a sponsorship soon grew into a partnership, with Capgemini helping the university students redefine their strategic direction and long-term vision.

Team alumnus and graduate intern Jessica Bos has been involved with Solar Team Twente since 2022.

“It’s really fun,” she says. “The biggest learning is about how everyone works together for that common goal. It’s something the students will be able to take forward into their careers.”

Where technology makes a real impact

Luc Evertzen, a former Solar Team Twente member, now works as a business analyst at Capgemini – a job found as a result of the collaboration.

“I joined Capgemini in early 2025,” he says, “and as a student, I was part of Solar Team Twente. Capgemini has been involved for about three years now, and we have always connected through the belief that technology is the foundation of a sustainable future, and that people are the ones who make it happen.”

Luc says that, over the years, Solar Team Twente has introduced innovations in materials science, solar-ray optimization, battery technology, and sustainable electronics. Many of these technologies – once considered experimental – are now used in everyday applications such as more efficient solar panels and battery systems.

The team also contributed to advancements including maximum power point tracking, a widely used method for optimizing solar energy output.

“We are looking at how we can contribute to societal challenges,” Luc explains, “from energy transition to sustainability. It is about applying what we have learned to create solutions that have real impact.”

As the world and technology evolve, the student team has evolved with it. Today’s students want to do more than build a car. They want to contribute to a better world by harnessing engineering talent to develop future sustainable technologies.

Collaboration and support

Luc says that during the early days of their collaboration, Capgemini colleagues asked an important question: “How can we help Solar Team Twente truly move forward in its strategic transition?”

To give structure and voice to this internal community, Capgemini formalized a group of ambassadors called the SunChargers.

Former SunCharger and applications consultant Dennis Leicher was part of that group, and helped Solar Team Twente in its transformation journey. He says that, as well as strategic guidance, Capgemini provides the Solar Team Twente students with coaching and operational support, leaving them free to explore solutions and experiment with the car’s design.

“The partnership between Capgemini and Solar Team Twente goes far beyond the scope of racing with solar energy,” he says. “It’s about innovation, too. That’s where it all comes together: connecting with our ecosystem of clients, you can discover how you can truly give innovation back to society.”

Same drive, new adventure

For the team, the thrill of the challenge remains, and the focus on pushing themselves and their technology to the limit stays the same.

“In the World Solar Challenge, we raced against around 30 teams from all over the world. That was so exciting, and was a real test,” says Jessica.

Luc explains that during such races, roles shift constantly. Some team members monitor weather patterns to maximize energy intake. Others perform mechanical checks. Many pivot to completely new responsibilities depending on what the moment demands.

“Everyone adapts,” he says. “You jump into whatever task is needed. That is part of the magic of being on the team.”

Now, the team is ready for its next chapter – and a dedicated team from Capgemini Invent is playing a crucial role in shaping a new direction.

Mission Desert Rally will see Solar Team Twente move away from road racing and switch to the more extreme environment of a desert terrain, with plans to race through the dunes of the Rallye du Maroc in 2028.

It’s a new adventure, a new race, and a new strategy for Solar Team Twente and the SunChargers. Together, they are paving the way toward sustainable mobility, fueled by innovation, collaboration, and the power of the sun.