Self Charging Solar Powered E.V.
Image Source Clean Technica
Solar Powered E.V. Promises Charge Free Commute
Aptera Motors, based in San Diego presented their new solar powered E.V. at the Move America Mobility Conference. Interestingly, Aptera Motors, Inc. liquidated in 2011, reforming as Aptera Motors Corp. The company promises charge-less driving, also stating the E.V. will come equipped with batteries to store energy for cloudy weather driving. These batteries range in size and milage, so far we know 25, 40, 60 & 100 kWh batteries will be available, the highest capacity models available delivering an estimate 1,000 miles of range. We can compare that an average efficient E.V. These run at roughly 4 miles per kWh, giving a max range of 400 miles. A 250% increase in range over the current standard isn’t impossible, but it does almost feel too good to be true.
Image Source CBT NEWS
Solar Powered E.V. Specs
The current price point suggested by Aptera is just under 26 thousand dollars which seems very affordable for the tech on display. The E.V. boasts around 67 horse power, with the drives being in the wheel hubs. The default option will be a front wheel drive with a 0 to 100kmh (o to 60 mph) in 5.5 seconds. A sportier option is available, by adding a motor to the rear wheel it can bring the acceleration time down to 3.5 seconds.
Image Source aptera
E.V. Motorcycle?
The three wheeler technically comes under motorcycle regulations. Due to the enclosure of the pod, no helmets are required. The vehicle is very light, weight approximately 360 kilograms, or 800 pounds. Aptera says they’re aiming to meet all the safety requirements required for cars (there are over 700 requirements) despite only being obliged to meet the motorcycles requirements of which there are considerably less (less than 40). Our final curious note about this vehicle is its cooling. It’s resin skin is supposed to imitate the way animals cool off by drawing heat out. This is the system responsible for keeping the motors, battery cells and solar panels cool. Until more details are released, this also seems like either a breakthrough or another “too good to be true” claim.
Is It Possible?
Yes, it is possible for an electric car to charge itself via solar energy. This technology is known as solar charging or solar-powered EV (electric vehicle) charging.
The basic idea is to install solar panels on the roof of a carport or a house, which can generate electricity from sunlight. The electricity generated can then be used to charge the electric car’s battery, either directly or by feeding it into the grid and then using it to charge the car.
There are also portable solar panels designed specifically for EV charging, which can be set up in a parking lot or other open space to generate electricity for charging electric cars.
Solar charging can offer several advantages, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions by using renewable energy to power cars, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and providing a cost-effective way to charge EVs. However, the effectiveness of solar charging depends on a variety of factors, including the size of the solar array, the amount of sunlight available, and the efficiency of the charging system.
In summary, solar charging is a promising technology that has the potential to make electric cars even more sustainable and cost-effective.
Wear & Tear
Solar panels on cars are subject to wear and tear, just like any other component of the vehicle. However, the rate of wear and tear will depend on several factors, including the quality of the panels, the installation method, and the operating conditions.
Solar panels are designed to withstand the elements, such as rain, snow, and wind, and are typically made with tempered glass that is resistant to scratches and impacts. Some panels may also be coated with a protective layer to prevent degradation from UV radiation.
In terms of the lifespan of the panels, high-quality solar panels can last for 25 years or more with proper maintenance. However, the efficiency of the panels will gradually decrease over time, which means that they will produce less power than they did when they were new.
One factor that can affect the lifespan of solar panels on a car is the level of vibration and mechanical stress that they are subject to while the vehicle is in motion. This can cause fatigue in the materials and reduce the effectiveness of the panels over time. To minimize this, the panels should be securely mounted and well protected from damage.
In summary, solar panels on cars can last for many years with proper maintenance and care. While wear and tear is a concern, it is generally not a major issue as long as the panels are of good quality and properly installed.
