Netherlands invents electric car that can run and charge at the same time

The Lightyear One electric car can run for months thanks to its ability to self-charge in sunlight.

Scientists at Eindhoven University in the Netherlands have successfully developed a new generation of solar-powered electric cars called Lightyear One. What's special is that this car can run for months thanks to its ability to self-charge when exposed to sunlight.

Illustration: KT

On the outside, the four-seater Lightyear One doesn’t look much different from the Stella electric car the team previously developed, but it’s more compact and lighter. The top and rear of the car are fitted with solar panels that generate enough electricity to charge the car’s battery all day long. With a special battery configuration, the car can travel 800km on a single charge.

The reduced weight of the car also means less electricity is used, allowing users to take full advantage of the benefits of the solar panels installed on the car, said Tessie Hartjes, from the research and development team.

Researchers had to remove the necessary barriers to allow users to drive the electric car anywhere, anytime. In hot climates, it can run for months without needing a backup charger.

It is estimated that the car can generate enough electricity to run 10,000 - 20,000 km per year depending on climate conditions. It is expected that the model will be mass produced in 2019./.

According to VOV