ITU ZES Solar Car Team Takes a Tour of Turkey

July 17, 2023

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ITU ZES Solar Car Team Embarks on Turkey Tour Ahead of Australian World Solar Challenge

The ITU ZES Solar Car Team, known for its impressive performance in the solar car race in Belgium, has embarked on a tour of Turkey with their latest creation, “Arıba ZES XE”. Before participating in the prestigious Australian World Solar Challenge, the ITU ZES Solar Car Team joined forces with Osmangazi University Mavera Technology Team and Eskişehir Technical University Hidroana Team in Eskişehir.

ZES, the new generation technology brand of Zorlu Energy, which focuses on renewable energy and future technologies, supported the ITU ZES Solar Car Team and brought together the teams from Eskişehir. The ITU ZES Solar Car Team achieved a significant feat by securing the third-place position in the iLumen European Solar Challenge (iESC 2022) held in Belgium last year. They will now compete in the upcoming Bridgestone World Solar Challenge 2023 in Australia, scheduled to take place from October 22 to 29.

Before the race, the ITU ZES Solar Car Team, along with the Osmangazi University Mavera Technology Team and the Eskişehir Technical University Hidroana Team, which also receive support from ZES, gathered in Eskişehir to boost morale and motivation. The teams had the opportunity to share their experiences and increase their motivation for the upcoming race.

Zorlu Energy, with its “Smart Life 2030” sustainability approach, continues to prioritize sustainability and renewable resources in its business models. The company is dedicated to creating a better world for future generations through the integration of smart technologies. ZES, as part of Zorlu Energy, supports and mentors young talents in their journey to gain experience and contribute to sustainable innovations.

During the event, Ural Halaçoğlu, R&D Manager of Zorlu Energy, emphasized the importance of strengthening university-industry cooperation. He stated that Zorlu Energy is committed to sustainability and clean energy systems. The company is actively involved in combating climate change, reducing carbon emissions, and ensuring the sustainable use of resources, among other initiatives. Supporting young talents in their innovative projects is a priority for Zorlu Energy, as they believe these projects contribute to a better future.

The primary goal of the ITU ZES Solar Car Team is to represent Turkey and the ITU in the best possible way at the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge 2023. They aim to build on their success in Europe and achieve outstanding results in Australia. The team’s vehicle, ARIBA ZES XE, is recognized as one of the most efficient and technically advanced solar cars to date.

During the meeting, the Mavera Technology Team expressed their gratitude for Zorlu Energy’s support as a gold sponsor. They highlighted the positive impact of this partnership on the development of their projects and their own growth. The team is determined to become a well-known club throughout Turkey with the support of Zorlu Energy.

The Hidroana team, specialized in hydrogen-powered vehicles, has been participating in various races for 17 years. With ZES’s support, they achieved fourth place in this year’s Shell Eco-Marathon Europe 2023 race held in France. The team aims to increase the prevalence and recognition of sustainable and environmentally friendly hydrogen energy through their projects.

In conclusion, the ITU ZES Solar Car Team’s tour of Turkey has provided an opportunity for collaboration, mentorship, and motivation ahead of the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge 2023. With the support of Zorlu Energy and ZES, these young talents are poised to make significant contributions to the advancement of sustainable technologies.