Why aren’t electric vehicles using solar panels integrated into the panoramic rooftops? Wouldn’t this eliminate the need for charging stations – to be able to collect a solar charge at most hours of the day and *during* the actual act of driving?

Question

Why aren’t electric vehicles using solar panels integrated into the panoramic rooftops? Wouldn’t this eliminate the need for charging stations – to be able to collect a solar charge at most hours of the day and *during* the actual act of driving?

In: 1963

Answer 1

The Hyundai Sonata hybrid (gasoline-electric hybrid, no plug) has this exact feature. With six hours of sunlight, it can generate about two extra miles of range per day.

The solar panels aren’t strong enough, and some of the electricity generated is lost immediately because the car is heavier.