Netherlands-based solar EV company Lightyear has unveiled the highly anticipated prototype of the Lightyear One vehicle, which was introduced in pre-production form in years past but has now been introduced in its real-world and upgraded form.
The 'Lightyear One' solar EV has been refurbished with high-tech photovoltaic technologies, which boost the vehicles range by up to 12 km per hour. Thanks to this upgrade, the vehicle has been able to demonstrate the ability to travel 710 kilometers on a single charge whilst attaining a top speed of 85 km/h.
With photovoltaic panels lining its roof and hood, this solar EV is going a long way to proving that its relatively compact battery does not hurt its ability to achieve high range, with the unabashed embracing of solar cells helping to achieve a desirable balance between range and energy consumption.
Solar Cell-Sheathed Cars
This Solar EV Offers High Range With a Diminutive Battery
Trend Themes
1. Solar-powered Vehicles - The trend of developing solar-powered vehicles to increase range and reduce carbon emissions.
2. Photovoltaic Panel Technology - The trend of incorporating high-tech photovoltaic panel technology into vehicles to boost range and energy efficiency.
3. Battery Innovation - The trend of developing more efficient and compact batteries to power electric vehicles.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - The automotive industry has the opportunity to embrace solar energy technology, reducing reliance on traditional fuel sources.
2. Renewable Energy - The renewable energy industry could expand into the transportation sector and develop innovative materials to improve photovoltaic panel efficiency.
3. Battery Manufacturing - The battery manufacturing industry has the opportunity to produce more efficient and sustainable batteries to power electric vehicles.