German car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz is developing a new type of solar paint (solar absorbing paint) for electric car or EV charging. This particular color contains photovoltaic cells (solar panels), which can absorb sunlight and turn it into electrical energy. This paint, when applied to the exterior of the vehicle, will help charge the battery of the electric vehicle or provide power to the motor.
The electricity generated from the dye's solar cells can be used for driving or transferred directly to a high-voltage battery.
'The photovoltaic system is permanently active and generates energy even when the vehicle is switched off,' says Mercedes. In future it will provide more electricity. As a result, the number of vehicle charging will decrease.
The company also says that the layers of paint applied to the EVs are thinner than a human hair. But its photovoltaic cells are full of energy. Applying this paint to the surface of a mid-size SUV can generate up to 7,456 miles per year under ideal conditions.
The vehicle must be located in a geographical location that receives plenty of sunlight during the day. However, energy received in places with less sunlight can make a significant difference in EV charging.
According to Mercedes, this solar paint charge can provide 100 percent of the energy needed to drive an average of 32 miles per day in areas with high sunlight (such as Los Angeles). Solar paint will also work in areas with less sunlight. It will provide enough power to drive 62 percent of the roads, such as Mercedes' headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany.
An added benefit for eco-friendly drivers—like some solar panels, this solar paint contains no rare metals or silicon. It contains only ingredients that are readily available. Mercedes also says it is easy to recycle and costs much less to produce than conventional solar panels.
Apator, Sono Motors, Lightyear and Hyundai are also researching how to best use solar energy to charge EVs.
But so far, solar panels can provide sufficient power for small and light vehicles. Eg: Apteror three-wheeler solar EV.
According to Mercedes, the solar paint could facilitate solar charging for the large range of electric SUVs.
