Space rejects

Nuna 2's solar cells were so-called "space rejects," meaning they were cells rejected for use in space missions due to minor imperfections and color differences. Despite this, they had almost the same efficiency as cells used in satellites.

Energy in the shade

Nuna 2 was equipped with Maximum Power Point Trackers (MPPT) to provide energy to the battery even in the shade. This technology is also used in satellites when their orientation changes relative to the sun.

A yellow plate

During the Adiante Tour, Nuna 2 drove on public roads, requiring a license plate. A portion of the solar panel was removed and replaced with a yellow plate. The solar car was also equipped with large headlights.

Space suit material

Nuna 2 was built using lightweight carbon fibers reinforced with aramid at the top and near the wheels. The strong aramid material is also used in astronaut space suits and certain parts of the International Space Station (ISS).

Nuna

Nuna 3

Nuna 2

After the great success of the first team, the project continued. Eight new students took on the challenge to build Nuna 2 and defend the world title. Nuna 2 once again crossed the finish line first, breaking Nuna's 2001 speed record by an hour and a half.

The victory wasn't just due to the robust technical design; a lot of attention was also given to practicing pit stops for the race. Nuna 2's tire changes only took four minutes, while other teams required at least twelve minutes.

In addition to the World Solar Challenge, Nuna 2 participated in the 2004 Phaethon race in Greece. It covered the 6000-kilometer Adiante Tour across Europe from Athens to Porto. During this tour, the solar car achieved a new top speed of 145 km/h. Nuna 2 also traveled through Scandinavia and crossed the Arctic Circle.