Benefits of a Solar-Powered Car

Solar-powered cars are powered by sunlight that is converted to electricity by the photovoltaic cells that line the car's exterior. They are limited to one or two passengers and must be very aerodynamic to run on only solar energy.

Energy Cost

Solar-powered cars convert solar radiation, a free renewable resource, to electrical power to run the vehicle so you don't have to pay for gasoline each time you need to fill up.

Emissions

Since the car uses solar power, it does not release the same pollutants as gasoline-powered cars, such as carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming, and sulfur oxides, which contribute to acid rain.

Motor

The electric motor used in solar cars is quieter and more energy efficient than gasoline motors.

Limitations

The solar-powered car can run only when the sun is shining unless it has a generator and a battery that can store the electricity generated during sunny hours for later use, or is a hybrid vehicle that can use energy from another power source.

Warning

The first commercial solar electric vehicle was released in January 2008 at a cost of over $100,000, so solar-powered cars are not yet a financially feasible option for most individuals.

References

• Solar-Powered Cars: Not Just Yet
• The Solar Car

Resources

• The First Commercial Solar-Electric Hybrid Car