The future is now, living in the 21st century, where advanced technology has become part of daily life, such as smartphones and video calling. This is attributed to cars, the main form of transportation for people. It is no surprise that car manufacturers are observing the rise in technological advancements, learning to play a role in new technologies. One such advancement is the use of solar panel cars, a type of science that has existed in the past, but only recently been tried with the development of modern vehicles. Understanding why solar cars are becoming available to the public market is part of the reason they are more eco-friendly and innovative than other vehicles. Let’s look into these futuristic vehicles.
How do Solar Cars Work?
These vehicles have photovoltaic solar panels that transforms sunlight into energy. It is all in the science of photovoltaic produced electrons that power is generated. This is a better alternative to gas-powered vehicles, as it reduces fossil fuels and an individual’s carbon footprint. Interestingly enough, these cars use nature’s organic light (the Sun) as a form of energy, proving how in tune solar panel energy is with the environment.
Note
The problem with modern solar panel cars is that they do not currently have enough power for long-distance travelling. According to most research, the power efficiency of a fully charged solar panel car is about 29% of gas-powered cars. This can be a problem for some people, especially those who wish to use their car on trips. Another problem is the lack of sunlight, such as driving at night. However, this industry is still in the niche market and has yet to obtained a status role in the mainstream car industry. In the coming decade, advancements will certainly be made in the design of solar powered vehicles, making them more reliable and available to the public, as they are slowly becoming more recognized.
The Lightyear car is one example of a solar-powered vehicle reaching markets. The name ‘Lightyear’ is a reference to the futuristic technology of the vehicle, years ahead in the making. The concept is effective, as the car is specifically designed to absorb sunlight. The Lightyear 0 is the one car that has grasped public attention. This car comes in different colours and is quite effective in the distances it reaches. It will certainly be a showcase at a party and a topic of conversation for many, in regard to its positive impact on the environment. The photovoltaic panels allow for more energy to be generated from average sunlight, less compared to other solar-powered cars.
Cars are meant for driving, so the distance that a solar-powered car can cover is always going to be in question. That is why new measures are being made to ensure more energy can be conserved, and more distance can be covered. It is all thanks to the scientific advancements made possible by the hard-working photovoltaic engineers, who are concerned about the amount of emissions and fossil fuels being produced in the world.
Babak Eslami | Writer
