American Solar Challenge 2026
For the first time in our history, Nuna is participating in the American Solar Challenge. During this eight-day challenge, Nuna 13S will travel from Minneapolis to Amarillo, covering thousands of miles powered solely by solar energy.
Before the race begins, teams must first qualify for participation. This qualification takes place during the Formula Sun Grand Prix (FSGP) at Brainerd International Raceway in Minnesota. While many solar races use a single hot lap to determine the starting order, the FSGP consists of three days of on-track competition. During these days, teams must demonstrate that their solar car is not only fast, but also reliable and energy efficient. As a result, the Formula Sun Grand Prix is a competition in its own right and determines which teams qualify for the American Solar Challenge.
The American Solar Challenge is a distance race. The route runs from Minneapolis to Amarillo, but along the way teams can complete additional loops to increase their total distance. The team that covers the greatest distance by the end of the eight-day event is declared the winner.
The American Solar Challenge marks a new chapter for our team. For the first time, we are travelling to North America to compete on a completely new continent, in a new country, and along an unfamiliar route. By taking on this challenge, we continue to push the boundaries of sustainable mobility and demonstrate what is possible through innovation, technology, and solar energy.
Learn more about American Solar Challenge
