World’s first solar powered production car that can travel 11,000 km/yr without any charge – Times of India

Netherlands-based EV company Lightyear unveiled its first solar-powered electric car, the Lightyear 0. The company has announced that the production-ready model features a 60kWh battery pack that offers a range of 625 kms, of which 70 kms is achievable. from solar power alone. The vehicle is powered by four in-wheel electric motors that produce a combined 174PS of power. Lightyear 0’s solar output is claimed to be up to 11,000 km per year. The sedan features what are called ‘double-curved solar arrays’ spread over 54 square feet between the front, roof and rear end of the EV. These solar panels can take energy from the sun at any time.

Lightyear 0, the world’s first production-ready solar EV

The Lightyear 0 has also attracted attention due to its unique design and technology. In countries with the right conditions, for a person traveling 35 km every day, a solar EV can last up to seven months without having to recharge its batteries via an electric point. Even in countries with abundant sunshine, light year 0 can last up to two months.
The engineering team spent 6 years of research and development to make the model ready for production. However, it is not much different from the concept model that was showcased in 2019. The car has long, flowing body lines that look elegant and enjoys a drag coefficient of 0.19 cd in its aerodynamic nature. The company further touts the Lightyear 0 as the world’s most energy-efficient EV, consuming only 10.5 kWh for every 100 km traveled at highway speed.

A Bright Horizon – the global premiere of the world’s first solar car

From the inside, Lightyear 0 lives up to its enduring mission statement. This includes plant-based leather, microfiber upholstery, textiles made from recycled bottles, and 100% vegan insulated particle foam. Other information like entertainment and navigation comes on a 10.1-inch touchscreen that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

light year 0, interior

light year 0, interior

In all, the EV maker plans to make only 946 of these solar-powered vehicles each year. The starting price of Lightyear 0 Solar EV has been announced at US$ 263,243 or Rs 2.05 crore (approx).