Under the right conditions, new solar paint technology of Mercedes-Bens could make it possible for electric cars (EVs) to manufacture power entirely using sunlight, possibly boosting the milage of vehicle by up to 20,000 kilometers each single year.
The main component of this advancement is a solar coating that is under 50 grams per square meter and is 5 microns thick. Without changing the vehicle’s aerodynamics or appearance, the paint incorporates incredibly thin photovoltaic cells into the body panels.
94% of sunlight can reach the implanted cells thanks to a top layer made of nanoparticles, which also supports exterior color customization.
Compared to typical solar panels, the embedded solar cells exhibit an efficiency of approximately 20%. With a surface of roughly 11 square meters, the solar paint could crank out enough energy to provide electricity for up to 20,000 kilometers of driving in scorching regions like California and about 12,000 kilometers in European conditions annually.
To increase the low-voltage output of the solar panel to a level acceptable for recharging or supplying the high-voltage systems of the EV, the experts of Mercedes-Benz have designed a micro-converter.
When the car is parked, this conversion mechanism continues to operate, enabling constant energy production during downtime.
The business added that in certain circumstances, the solar system might generate extra energy, which could then be sent back to residential systems through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities.
The solar paint is more economical and environmentally friendly because it doesn’t require silicon or rare earth materials. Its environmental credentials are made even better given the simple fact that the application method is conducted at room temperature and does not involve any expertise in ovens or high-powered devices.
Even though this theory has future potential, there are substantial obstacles when it comes to scaling the technology. Precise measurements require the attention to guarantee consistent coating and power output, given that the shape and components on the surface of car are distant.
In addition, the system needs to keep working regardless of being subjected to weather, debris, and mechanical wear and tear over time.
Mercedes-Benz expects to finish research on solar paint along with testing through the end of 2025, with an estimated commercial launch date of 2040.
Through passive charging, solar paint might extend the accurate range of EVs and minimize reliance on public charging stations if it became available for sale.
Experts of Mercedes-Benz believe that this major development might boost EV adoption by lowering the costs of operating as well as decreasing range anxiety in regions that have considerable exposure to sunlight, however it is unlikely to entirely eliminate plug-in charging.
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