SOLAR POWERED TAXIS: Could this sleek looking sun powered vehicle be a future hit in the taxi trade?
- Perry Richardson
- Mar 11, 2021
- 2 min read
A solar fuelled taxi, or at least a cab that substantially reduces annual fuel and running costs, has long been the holy grail for those working within the industry.
Sono Motors are looking to become the company that revolutionises the future of solar-powered transportation, as it unveiled the next frontier for its polymer-based Sono Solar Technology at CES 2021.
In line with Sono Motors’ vision for an affordable, accessible world without fossil fuels, the company has created a platform to expand the use of the solar technology innovations borne from Sono Motor’s futurist solar powered car the Sion.
Jona Christians, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Sono Motors, said: “We have found a way to deliver sustainable, free power across various transportation applications by replacing the traditional ‘paint shop’ process with integrated solar technology. While Sono Solar Technology is cheaper, lighter, and much more efficient than conventional glass-based solar cells, I am most excited about the potential uses that will arise thanks to its incredible flexibility.”
Thanks to more than 248 solar cells cleverly integrated into the body of the solar car, the Sion can add up to 245 km (112 km on average) of driving range per week through solar energy to the car’s battery.
The Sion exhibited the first series-intended solar integration on the body for the model during CES 2021. Those parts either come from series suppliers or are parts that are close to series. Besides the successful implementation of the electric drive unit, the chassis and the MPPT Central Unit (MCU), Sono Motors achieved something remarkable by placing solar panels on all straight and curved exterior parts of the vehicle.
Sono Motors also took a step forward in the development of the Sono App and infotainment. The in-vehicle control units now communicate with the app and infotainment. For example, in live tracking of solar energy, keyless entry, opening the charging lid, control of the cabin temperature and ambient light all communicates across all platforms.
It’s also worth mentioning new high quality surface materials and dashboard give the vehicle a modern look and a good indication of the standard look and feel of the Sion.
