Lightyear has unveiled their new One prototype which
is being billed as the world’s first “long-range solar car.” Designed to solve problems
related to traditional electric vehicles, such as a lack of charging
infrastructure and ‘dirty’ methods of producing electricity, the One has been
equipped with solar cells on the hood and roof. The solar panels span an area
of 53.8 square feet and are covered by safety glass which is
reportedly strong enough that a “fully-grown adult can walk on them without
causing dents.”
While the amount of electricity generated by the
panels will vary, Lightyear says the model should be able to create an extra 50-70 km of range every day during a summer in the Netherlands. Over
the course of a year, the company says the car could generate approximately 700
kWh of electricity.
The company was tight-lipped on powertrain details,
but confirmed the One has four in-wheel electric motors and a “relatively small
battery.” They claim this setup will provide a range of 725 km according to the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure.
Since drivers can’t always count on the sun, the One
has also been equipped with traditional charging capabilities. In particular,
Lightyear says owners will be able to get up to 400 km of range by
charging the vehicle overnight with an ordinary 230V socket.
Part of the reason for the impressive range is the
One’s extremely aerodynamic shape. The company is still working to finalize the
design, but the current drag coefficient is estimated to be under 0.20. That’s
an impressive figure, but it was achieved by equipping the car with aerodynamic
wheels, digital side mirrors and semi-blocked off rear wheel openings. The One also
boasts streamlined styling and an aerodynamic rear end that mimics the
Volkswagen XL1.
While the car is still a prototype, the company
plans to launch a production model in 2021. The first 100 vehicles have already
been spoken for, but there are still 400 open reservation slots which can be
booked for € 119,000.
