The world’s first solar-powered ambulance, Stella Juva, is bringing medical care directly to remote communities where electricity, fuel and infrastructure are limited.
Developed by students at Eindhoven University of Technology, the electric ambulance uses integrated solar panels to charge a 50 kWh battery. Extended panels provide additional power and shade when the vehicle is stationary, allowing medical equipment to operate even after sunset.
During its first field test in Kenya, Stella Juva travelled more than 800 kilometres across the Narok region, reaching communities on difficult roads. Equipped with ultrasound, X-ray, vaccine cooling and emergency equipment, it could provide care to around 200 people during a two-day outreach.
The ambulance could also perform ultrasound scans for up to 40 pregnant women during a single visit, helping identify health risks earlier in remote areas.
Following the successful trial, the team hopes to work with organisations and governments to bring the technology to more communities.
