More than 40 teams from almost two dozen countries will compete in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge from Darwin to Adelaide this year as the 3000-kilometre race makes its return after a COVID-19-enforced break.
Pandemic travel restrictions prevented the biennial event from happening in 2021 but the race across the country will return in October with one of its most impressive fields.
For the first time teams from Estonia and Romania will take part along with a strong contingent of other European entries as well as cars from North America, South America, the Middle East, Asia and Australia.
With the world's never-ending quest for fuel efficiency, Event Director Chris Selwood said the challenge was more relevant in 2023 than when it was first staged in 1987.
"As consumers increasingly look to more sustainable options to petrol-driven cars and governments strive for renewable energy solutions, this event raises awareness to the possibilities of not just what could be, but what can be achieved now," he said on Monday.
"It is the ultimate proving ground over 3000 kilometres."
South Australian Deputy Premier Susan Close said the event enhanced the state's reputation as a significant player in hi-tech industries, including defence, space, and renewable energy.
Ms Close said it provided a unique platform to connect and engage industry, build the workforce and attract future talent.
"It aligns with our future focus towards advanced manufacturing and by hosting the event we highlight the importance of these industries," she said.
Northern Territory Major Events Minister Paul Kirby said by traversing Australia's outback the challenge offered communities a unique opportunity to see firsthand the world's most efficient electric cars and meet the teams behind the scenes.
Among the 43 teams competing across three classes will be eight Australian outfits including those from Flinders University, the University of Adelaide and a new Victorian team from Deakin University.
Other entrants will come from ANU in Canberra, the University of NSW, Western Sydney University and Queensland's Clenergy Team Arrow.
The main challenger class has attracted 32 entrants including the 2019 champions, Innoptus Solar Team from Belgium.
Three highly-favoured Dutch teams will also compete, Brunel Solar Team, Team Twente, and Top Dutch, along with Japan's Team Tokai and the American solar champions from the University of Michigan.
Mr Selwood said the value of the solar challenge extended well beyond solar cars.
"The value lies in its people and the lessons they learn," he said.
"Our alumni are a cohort of high-achieving changemakers, from global highflyers to garage start-ups."
Main sponsor, Bridgestone said the race provided the company with a platform to develop and showcase tyres for innovative vehicles and support the development of mobility solutions around the world.
The challenge will be staged from October 22-29 with the leading cars expected to reach Adelaide in between three and four days.