Solar powered ambulance 'Stella Juva' completes 800-km test in Kenya

A solar-powered ambulance developed by Dutch university students has completed its first major field test in Kenya, covering more than 800 kilometres across remote areas.

The vehicle, named Stella Juva, was developed by 23 students from Eindhoven University of Technology and tested in partnership with Amref Health Africa.

Designed as a mobile clinic, the two-seater can carry healthcare workers and medical equipment to communities with limited access to electricity and healthcare services.

During a two-day trial in Narok County, the team drove the vehicle on unpaved roads to remote locations, including Mosiro, where it was tested under challenging off-road conditions.

The trial involved testing medical equipment including an ultrasound scanner, X-ray machine, automated external defibrillator and vaccine refrigeration units.

The developers said Stella Juva generated more solar energy than its medical equipment consumed while the vehicle was stationary during the trial.

The ambulance is fitted with solar panels on its roof, as well as additional panels that can be extended when parked. According to its developers, it can travel up to about 715 kilometres on a sunny day and reach a top speed of 120 kilometres per hour.

Isabella Wanningen, a member of Solar Team Eindhoven, said the trial allowed the team to assess both the vehicle’s off-road capabilities and its potential to support healthcare delivery.

“We’ve driven more than 800 kilometres and tested her capabilities both in whether she is able to go off-road and how she can actually deliver healthcare,” Wanningen told AFP.

Geoffrey Sadera, Amref Health Africa’s project lead for maternal and child health, said the vehicle could help improve access to healthcare in remote communities.

“Now that we have seen what Stella Juva can do in practice, we see enormous potential for remote communities. This could truly be a game changer,” Sadera said.