A solar-powered EV that can drive using energy gathered directly from sunlight is moving closer to everyday use. A recent report from the Wall Street Journal says a small group of startups has pushed solar technology for cars to the point where sunlight alone can now cover a large share of daily driving needs.
Aptera Motors, headquartered in Carlsbad in Southern California, has developed a solar system that can be installed across the surface of a vehicle. The company says it focused not only on solar-panel efficiency but also on maximizing the energy efficiency of the electric vehicle and its power conversion system. The panels are made from chemically strengthened, high-durability glass designed to keep producing power even after impacts.
Aptera Motors plans to begin shipping its vehicle as early as next year, with a price in the $40,000 range. In its “Launch Edition,” the car can gain up to 40 miles of driving range per day from strong summer sunlight in downtown Las Vegas, and about 15 miles per day in northern regions during winter. On a full charge, it can travel 400 miles.
The vehicle is a two-seat, three-wheel model. In its front-wheel-drive version, it can accelerate from a stop to 60 mph in six seconds and reach a top speed of 101 mph.
The solar panels developed by Aptera Motors will also be supplied to Telo Trucks, an electric truck startup based in San Carlos. The Telo Trucks compact pickup produces 500 horsepower and offers 350 miles of range. It is shorter than a Mini Cooper but has a cargo bed similar in size to that of a Toyota Tacoma. The truck is priced at about $41,000, while optional solar panels for the roof and bed cover cost $1,500 and $2,700, respectively. These panels can add an estimated 15–30 miles of driving range per day.
Another company, Polydrops in Glendale, is already selling an electric camping trailer equipped with Aptera Motors panels.
There are also efforts to extend range by adding solar modules to existing electric vehicles. DartSolar plans to release foldable, roof-rack-style panels. The product line will range from 500W ($1,000) to 2000W ($4,000). A 1000W panel can add 10–20 miles of range to a Tesla Model 3 on a clear day. A separate power converter, which costs about $1,000, is required. However, this setup makes repairs and upgrades easier and less expensive.
Industry insiders say major automakers are unlikely to adopt fully integrated solar systems right away. Jason Marks, CEO of Telo Trucks, noted that integrating solar panels into vehicles raises manufacturing costs because it involves complex hardware and software. He added that how widely this technology spreads will depend on future demand.
BY HOONSIK WOO [woo.hoonsik@koreadaily.com]
