Recharge While You Drive

A new solar-electric vehicle that recharges itself whenever it’s out in the sun is slated to enter production next year. Dubbed Sion, the minivan-style auto is covered with 248 polymer solar panels that can generate up to 35 kilometers (more than 20 miles) of additional range per day (depending on weather).

Like any electric car, Sion can be recharged by plugging into a power outlet or charging station; however, a bidirectional onboard charging system also enables power-sharing with other vehicles. The average driving range on a full charge is about 255 kilometers (160 miles), but with the added solar boost, it has been estimated that, under normal use, the vehicle could run for up to four weeks before losing power.

Sion has been designed with cost-efficiency in mind by using off-the-shelf parts and limiting production to one model and color (i.e., black). Many standard replacement parts can be changed by the owner, making maintenance more affordable, too. The company plans to sell exclusively online with a target starting price of $26,400.