UCAD students unveil solar-powered utility vehicle, “Auto Gazelle,” to address water, electricity woes in Senegal

In a remarkable display of innovation and commitment to sustainable development, students from Cheick Anta Diop University have introduced a cutting-edge solar utility vehicle named the “Auto Gazelle.”

This groundbreaking project, conceptualized and crafted by students from the Ecole Supérieure Polytechnique de Dakar, took center stage during the inaugural ESP Alumni Days celebration.

The Auto Gazelle is not merely a vehicle; it represents a dual-purpose solution to pressing issues faced in rural Senegal — water scarcity and unreliable electricity.

Tailored for the challenging terrain of the African savannah, particularly the Senegalese countryside, the Gazelle project is poised to make a substantial impact on rural communities, especially farmers.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the Auto Gazelle boasts the capability to power a 500-watt water pump for over 12 hours or operate a robust 3000-watt electric machine continuously for 2 hours.

This innovation addresses critical needs in agricultural areas, ensuring a stable water supply during non-winter seasons, significantly benefitting farmers and rural stakeholders.

Approximately fifty students engaged in a collaborative effort, delving into the economic, technical, aesthetic, and strategic dimensions of the project.

Their work was conducted under the watchful guidance of distinguished professors, emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of this ambitious undertaking.

Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar deserves commendation for fostering an environment that encourages and supports its students in pioneering initiatives that not only showcase academic prowess but also contribute meaningfully to societal challenges.

The Auto Gazelle stands as a testament to the university’s commitment to nurturing innovation for a sustainable future.