Solar Team Eindhoven, a student team from Eindhoven University of Technology, is developing an ambulance powered entirely by solar energy. The vehicle’s solar panels not only provide the energy required for driving but also power all onboard medical equipment.

As far as is known, Stella Juva will be the world’s first ambulance capable of operating fully on solar energy while delivering medical care. This innovation enables healthcare services in locations where access to medical support is often limited, such as remote or hard-to-reach areas.

Front and rear suspension testing and validation

VDL ETS plays an important role in the development of Stella Juva by extensively testing the ambulance’s front and rear suspension systems. During these tests, the suspension is subjected to a wide range of loads and impact forces to verify its reliability, safety, and durability. This thorough validation helps ensure that the vehicle can operate with confidence in demanding conditions.

Preparing for real-world validation in Kenya

These tests are an important step in preparation for a field trial in Kenya, scheduled for August 2026. In collaboration with NGO Amref, Stella Juva will travel a 1,000-kilometre route to test and validate the ambulance under real-world operating conditions.