A new study has modelled the potential of solar cars in 100 cities across the globe.
The results reveal that solar energy provides a range between 11 and 29km per day, reducing the charging needs of electric cars by half.
The results of the study were published in Wiley.
Benefits of solar cars
Although the adoption of electric vehicles is increasing, the transport sector is still responsible for about a third of global carbon dioxide emissions globally.
To achieve decarbonisation targets, the emissions associated with mobility must be significantly decreased.
Solar cars can contribute to this aim, reducing carbon dioxide emissions associated with electricity generation.
Charging costs and frequency can also be reduced through the introduction of photovoltaic modules into electric vehicles.
Solar cars therefore can benefit users and the electrical grid itself.
Assessing the potential of solar-powered vehicles in urban areas
Urban areas are the main market for electric vehicles but also have limited solar potential, explained Miguel Centeno Brito, first author of this study, researcher at Instituto Dom Luiz – IDL, at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon.
He argued: “Cities are today the main market for electric vehicles and, due to the relatively small travelled distances, are particularly interesting for solar-powered vehicles.
“However, in urban areas, we have buildings, trees and other obstacles casting shadows onto the roads thus limiting the solar potential of driving or parked vehicles.
“The purpose of the work was to assess if the impact of these shadows is a significant limitation to the potential of solar cars.”
What areas are most favourable for solar cars?
The study found that the most favourable locations for solar cars are cities in Africa, the Middle East, southern Europe, and Southeast Asia.
China, North America, and Australia also showed interesting potential. Losses associated with shading in these geographies are around 25%, and therefore relevant.
However, they are not an impediment to the large-scale dissemination of this solution.
To validate the model, the team then launched an experimental campaign with citizen scientists.
The study can act as a roadmap to a more sustainable future
As urban populations continue to grow alongside concerns around environmental sustainability, solar-powered vehicles could not come at a better time.
“Our results can help establish a roadmap for policymakers and the automotive industry to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly urban future,” concluded Miguel Centeno Brito.
