James, of Comptons Lane, Horsham, has been part of a team preparing the student-built solar-powered electric car for the race for three years now, which takes place from October 18 to 25 from Darwin to Adelaide. The project, Ardingly Solar, is entering in the cruiser class that seeks to encourage practical, sustainable transport. The group estimates 80 Ardingly College students have been involved in the making of the car, with teachers providing expertise to assist. To enter the race there must be strict adherence to the 366 regulations or face exclusion from the race. The Ardingly Solar project has received around £150,000 worth of financial and practical support from industry and sponsors. David Smith, chief financial officer, Rolls Royce, has praised the students’ efforts: “The solar car is a tremendously ambitious project and a great challenge for Ardingly pupils and staff, in an exciting area of technology. I look forward to seeing them on the road crossing the Australian desert.” The group are currently putting the last touches to the car before commencing testing on the vehicle. Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live. Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be among the first to know what’s going on. 1 Make our website your homepage at www.wscountytimes.co.uk 2 Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/wscountytimes 3 Follow us on Twitter @wscountytimes 4 Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here. And do share with your family and friends – so they don’t miss out! The County Times – always the first with your local news. Be part of it.