Solar mobility ceases to be a futuristic promise to become a tangible and measurable solution.
This is confirmed by the SolarMoves project, led by the research center TNO (Netherlands), Fraunhofer ISE (Germany), and pioneering companies like Lightyear, IM Efficiency, and Sono Motors, specialized in integrating solar panels in electric vehicles.
Over nine months, the team collected real data on the performance of photovoltaics integrated in vehicles (VIPV) under everyday conditions.
Over a million kilometers traveled: data validating solar potential
Trucks, buses, and electric cars equipped with solar sensors on European routes.
Since March 2024, a fleet of 18 electric vehicles—including trucks, vans, buses, and cars—traveled over 1 million kilometers on routes in Netherlands and northern Germany.
Equipped with solar sensors on roofs and sides, the vehicles allowed measuring solar irradiation in real circulation.
- Roof: daily average of 2.8 kWh/m²
- Sides: daily average of 1.3 kWh/m²
This difference, although expected, was empirically confirmed, providing key inputs for optimized solar vehicle design.
Shade and urban environment: technical challenges for photovoltaic efficiency
The urban environment poses specific challenges for VIPV, especially due to shadows projected by trees, buildings, and other vehicles.
Researchers highlight the need to improve simulation models, incorporating geographical, satellite, and meteorological data, as well as driving patterns, to more accurately reflect real conditions.
“Integrating contextual variables allows designing more effective and tailored systems,” says Christian Braun, an engineer at Fraunhofer ISE.
Energetic validation: partial autonomy and less pressure on the power grid
The project also served to validate generation and energy consumption models. Three vehicles were key:
- Lightyear 0
- Ford E-Transit (Sono Motors)
- eVolvo Truck (IM Efficiency)
In the case of Lightyear 0, solar panels managed to cover up to 50% of the annual consumption in southern Europe, and 35% in central areas, reducing the need for frequent recharging and strengthening energy self-sufficiency.
Geographical expansion and next steps towards solar mobility
New measurements in southern and eastern Europe to refine adoption strategies.
SolarMoves will expand its measurement campaign to regions with higher solar radiation, such as southern and eastern Europe.
The goal is to observe seasonal behaviors and generate technical and strategic recommendations for the adoption of VIPV in urban fleets, logistics vehicles, and legislative frameworks.
