Lightyear showcases the long-range BEV Concept using solar panels

Netherlands-based startup company Lightyear has come out with the One Concept, an all-electric ‘solar car’ with extended driving range and 5 m2 (53.8 ft2) of solar panels.

The company claims the car offers 725 kilometers (450 miles) of WLTP-rated driving range. The impressive numbers are explained by lightweight (aluminum/composite) body construction and low aerodynamic drag,

The solar panels cover the entire roof of the vehicle and some of its front end. The amount of energy produced is dependent on the current weather and sun intensity. For instance, the vehicle can cover around 20,000 kilometers (12,400 miles) per year in Hawaii using sun power. In Amsterdam, the free range drops to around 10,000 km (6,200 miles) per year, the startup claims. Whenever the weather is bad, you can charge the Lightyear One using a regular wall socket.

Sales should begin in 2021 with prices starting from €149,000. Despite this, the initial batch of 100 cars sold out quickly in pre-orders.

Photos: Lightyear