Summary
- Lightyear is a company that has faced challenges in bringing solarized electric cars to the market
- They have re-emerged with a new business plan focusing on affordability and providing solar systems for other automakers
- Lightyear secured funding of over 10 million euros for their vehicle-integrated photovoltaics platform
- Solarized electric cars can contribute to grid reliability and resilience by charging off-grid
- Other companies, such as Aptera and Worksport, are also exploring the idea of solarizing electric vehicles
Article
Several startups have attempted to bring solarized electric cars to the market, including the Dutch company Lightyear. The company faced bankruptcy but has recently re-emerged with a focus on affordability. Lightyear announced a pre-order of 10,000 solar electric cars from a vehicle leasing firm, indicating its intent to produce these vehicles.
Following a new business model, Lightyear has shifted its focus to manufacturing photovoltaic systems for electric cars produced by other automakers. The company’s “Lightyear Layer” platform aims to provide off-grid charging solutions for electric vehicles, positioning Lightyear in competition with other stakeholders in the field. With a recent funding round of over 10 million euros, Lightyear is poised to continue manufacturing efficient on-board solar systems.
Adding solar panels to electric cars may seem unnecessary with grid and household solar energy options available. However, the convenience of free renewable energy recharging without locating a charging station can outweigh the initial cost. The US Department of Energy sees potential in a national fleet of solar-powered electric vehicles contributing to grid reliability and resilience.
While solarized electric cars have their benefits, there is even more potential in outfitting commercial trucks and trailers with solar panels. The US Department of Energy sees these vehicles as promising applications for vehicle-integrated PV due to their large, flat surfaces and standardized shapes. Companies like Worksport are already offering solarized tonneau covers and energy storage packages for electric pickup trucks.
Aptera, another startup in the electric vehicle space, is exploring solarizing electric cars from other automakers and has partnered with financial firm US Capital for funding. The company is leveraging its intellectual property portfolio to explore solarizing aviation ground support vehicles, recreational vehicles, and boats. Additionally, Aptera has teamed up with the electric trailer firm Polydrops to equip trailers with large solar arrays.
In conclusion, the idea of putting solar panels on electric vehicles is gaining traction as a way to provide off-grid charging solutions, contribute to grid reliability, and offer backup power options. Startups like Lightyear and Aptera are at the forefront of this movement, exploring various business models and partnerships to bring solarized electric vehicles to the market. With increasing interest and funding in this sector, the future looks promising for solar-powered transportation.
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