By Business Correspondent
Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Mercedes-Benz is testing a groundbreaking solar coating for electric vehicles (EVs) that could enable drivers to charge their cars without plugging in. This innovation, described as a “wafer-thin layer” applied to the car’s bodywork, has the potential to harness solar energy to power EVs and even provide surplus energy for homes via bidirectional charging.
A Step Toward Sustainable Driving
The solar paint is made from non-toxic, readily available materials, excluding rare earths and silicon, and is designed to be easy to recycle. The technology is also significantly cheaper to produce than traditional solar panels.
Each panel of the vehicle is galvanically isolated and wired into a power converter, sending electricity to the battery or directly to the motors. The photovoltaic system remains active even when the vehicle is off, continuously generating energy.
Impressive Efficiency and Range
With a high efficiency of 20%, the solar coating can produce substantial energy. For example, on a mid-size SUV with a surface area of 118.4 square feet, it could generate enough power for up to 7,456 miles of driving annually under optimal conditions.
Energy output varies depending on location and sunlight intensity. In Stuttgart, Germany, solar energy could cover approximately 62% of a driver’s daily 32-mile commute, while in sunny Los Angeles, the technology could potentially power 100% of the average daily commute.
Customizable and Color-Friendly
Topped with a nanoparticle-based paint, the coating allows 94% of sunlight to penetrate while offering a full spectrum of colors. Darker shades capture more energy, enhancing the efficiency of the solar panels integrated into the vehicle’s body.
Broad Applicability in Development
Mercedes-Benz is actively working on adapting the solar paint for use across all exterior surfaces, regardless of shape or angle. The company sees this as a transformative solution for extending electric range, reducing charging stops, and increasing the sustainability of EVs.
This innovation is poised to push the boundaries of EV technology, aligning with global trends toward green mobility and self-sustaining energy solutions. If successfully commercialized, it could redefine the future of electric vehicles, offering drivers greater freedom and efficiency.