A Dutch startup called Lightyear recently introduced their solar-powered EV , the Zero, which can drive up to 44 miles per day using solar power alone.
The SEV (solar electric vehicle) is a rarity in the auto industry, with few manufactures investing in solar panels to add range to their vehicles.
Even for Lightyear, the Lightyear 0 will be a small run production as a proof of concept. The car will be manufactured in just 946 units, each carrying a price tag of €250,000 ($264.000 USD).
Weighing just 1,575 kg, it’s made out of reclaimed carbon fiber and features a vegan interior.
Another interesting design choice is the replacing of side and rear view mirrors with a camera system.
Fortunately, the makers hope that will create a market for SEVs, which would allow them to start manufacturing a second, more affordable model that could retail for €30,000 as early as 2025.
Speaking with The Guardian, Telian Franken, the prototype team lead, shared some ambitious plans.
“We’re trying to make the difference, not for the millionaire who can afford a €250,000 car, but to get us to the point where the average person can get off grid – get a reliable sustainable vehicle that beats toe-for-toe any econo-box you can get at the time,” they said.
Until then, what €250,000 gets you is a sleek prototype, covered in 5 square feet of curved solar panels, which has a 388 mile range per charge and can harvest from the sun an additional 44 miles a day.
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