Sun strokes

摘要

Setting up a dirt bike for the harsh terrain of the Dakar Rally route is challenging enough but, as Naouel Zenaidi discovers, one man is preparing to go solar. To most riders, finding themselves in the desert without fuel is a nightmare scenario. To engineering consultant and motorbike enthusiast Ed Laurence, it's an adventure, and the opportunity to showcase the potential of a solar-powered drive system. Originally from Australia, Ed has worked with Ford and JLR, and is currently on contract at Land Rover in Gaydon, Warwickshire. He specialises in hybrid control systems and, in conversation with him, it doesn't take long to realise how passionate the 31-year-old is about the automotive industry." Outside of work, I do spend a lot of time working on cars and bikes for projects, expeditions and motorsport," admits Ed. Growing up, he became a keen follower of the Dakar Rally and has completed many rides across Europe and Northern Africa over the years -both as solo rider and in the company of his brothers. This inspired him to embark on an ambitious project: taking a solar-charging electric dirt bike on a 6,000-kilometre ride across South America.