The Eindhoven University of Technology, together with Solar Team Eindhoven and the company Aiko, presented Stella Juva, the first ambulance powered entirely by solar energy. Its launch is scheduled for July 2026 and aims to facilitate healthcare in remote regions or areas with limited infrastructure.
This project marks a decisive step in the evolution of solar mobility, advancing from transportation solutions to mobile energy systems capable of supporting essential services such as healthcare.
Aiko’s Solar Technology
The ambulance integrates Aiko’s ABC (All Back Contact) solar cells, designed to maximize light absorption and maintain stable performance under variable conditions.
- Front metallization-free design: greater light efficiency.
- Silver-free metallization: reduces microcracks and improves durability.
- Low temperature coefficient: stable performance in diverse climates.
- High resistance to degradation: extends the system’s lifespan.
According to David Komdeur, photovoltaic engineer at Solar Team Eindhoven, Stella Juva “pushes the limits of what solar technology can achieve in real-world applications.”
Solar Team Eindhoven’s Track Record
The team has solid experience in solar mobility:
- Stella Vita: solar motorhome for long-distance travel.
- Stella Terra: first solar off-road vehicle for extreme environments.
- World Solar Challenge: winners four consecutive times in the Cruiser Class category.
With Stella Juva, they expand their vision towards sustainable health, demonstrating that photovoltaic innovation can contribute to both clean transportation and emergency care.
Impact and Commitment
The collaboration reinforces Aiko’s commitment to bringing high-efficiency solar solutions to new application areas. The integration of its technology in an ambulance demonstrates how solar energy can become a strategic resource for essential services, reducing emissions and improving resilience in areas with limited energy access.
Aiko, a global leader in solar technology, maintains its mission to “drive the transformation towards a carbon-free era”, developing products and integrated solutions for various scenarios.
Stella Juva represents a pioneering advancement in solar mobility applied to health, combining technological innovation, sustainability, and social commitment. Its arrival in 2026 will mark a turning point in the way solar energy is conceived as a vital support in remote regions.
