It seems like everybody is getting in on the electric vehicle action. Even companies who aren't really automakers are looking at forming their own electric car divisions. Just check out this new company.

Chinese solar panel manufacturer Hanergy Holding Group has just formed a Solar Vehicle Business Division that recently released four new electric vehicle prototypes powered by the Sun.

Credit: AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein

Hanergy had actually announced its plans to release solar-powered EVs last year, but the lack of prototypes from the company cast doubt into their ability to deliver.

The company actually came through, releasing four different models, Hanergy Solar O, L, A and R, each for a specific use or purpose. Each of the cars is made very lightweight and covered in Hanergy's thin-film solar cells.

In terms of performance, Hanergy's cars and solar cells are as good as the competition's. The car will be generating 8 to 10 kWh of energy with 5 to 6 hours of sunlight, meaning a conversion rate of 31.6 percent and range of 80 km (50 miles).


Share This Article