University students invent first-ever solar-powered ambulance. It provides fully off-grid care in rural areas
Good Good Good · 2026-07-31
In July 2026, students from Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands unveiled the Stella Juva, reportedly the world's first solar-powered ambulance. Designed to provide fully off-grid medical care in rural and hard-to-reach areas, the vehicle integrates solar panels on its roof to power both its movement and on-board medical equipment, including X-ray machines and defibrillators. On a sunny day, the Stella Juva can achieve a top speed of approximately 75 miles per hour and cover around 445 miles. It also features testing kits for tuberculosis, cooled storage for vaccines, and ultrasound devices.
Amref Health Africa, which has worked for 70 years to improve healthcare access in Africa, has partnered with Solar Team Eindhoven. They emphasize that access to care should not depend on electricity or fuel availability. The Stella Juva will soon be deployed to Kenya for a testing phase, simulating healthcare scenarios like tuberculosis treatment in remote locations to evaluate its real-world performance. The team anticipates covering hundreds of kilometers during this period, powered entirely by solar energy.
*The full article also explores the potential for inspiring further technological innovation in healthcare access and sustainability through such collaborations.*