Stella Juva, developed by students from Eindhoven University of Technology, is an ambulance that can travel to communities without reliable access to fuel, electricity or charging infrastructure. Described as the world’s first solar-powered ambulance, the vehicle uses electric mobility with an onboard renewable energy system capable of supporting medical equipment. Stella Juva functions as a mobile healthcare station with a climate controlled medical cabin. The vehicle is equipped a specialised X-ray system for tuberculosis screening, ultrasound equipment for prenatal care, rapid diagnostic tools for malaria and automated external defibrillators. A high-efficiency refrigeration system ensures that temperature-sensitive vaccines and medicines can be safely stored, even in extreme climates. This could reduce the need for vulnerable patients to undertake lengthy journeys to distant hospitals and enable earlier intervention in medical emergencies. A substantial battery system provides additional energy when sunlight is unavailable, extending the vehicle’s usefulness beyond daylight hours. Under favourable conditions, the ambulance can reportedly achieve a range of up to 715 kilometres.
The project developed in partnership with solar technology company AIKO, which has supplied its high-efficiency ABC (All Back Contact) solar cells. Unlike conventional photovoltaic cells, the ABC architecture places electrical contacts on the rear of the cell, eliminating front-side metallisation and allowing more light to reach the photovoltaic surface. The technology also uses silver-free metallisation, reducing potential microcracks and supporting long-term durability. The project is moving beyond the university laboratory and is set to undergo field testing in Kenya, where the team will investigate how solar mobility could support healthcare in communities where conventional energy infrastructure remains difficult to access.
