A group of European researchers and commercial developers are developing lightweight vehicles with integrated PVs. They ensure to make them cost-effective, and solar-powered vehicles for passengers and cargo. Presently, they are 3- and 4-wheeled prototype vehicles.
The Green Intelligent Affordable Nano Transport Solutions (GIANTS) project aims for a platform with standardized components that will include a powertrain, solar PV parts, and a battery. It will also have support for end-of-life refurbishment and maintenance.
This €12 million project is around 42 months long with 23 partners from industry and research institutes. The group is planning to demonstrate small fleets of GIANTS’ LEV prototypes in Stockholm and Bruges, Europe. There will be international demonstrations in Kisumu, Kenya, Manila, Philippines, and Delhi, India. The LEV prototypes will be analyzed for manufacturability, usability, environmental benefits, business viability, and user acceptability.
The L5 types prototypes are designed either for cargo or people and have the following specifications.
- Top speed: 31 mph
- Wheel: 2 four-wheel
L6 type
- Seats: 2
- Top speed: 28 mph
- Weight: 350 kg
- Rated Power: 6 kW
L7 type vehicle
- Weight: 550 kg
- Rated Power: 15 kW
Researchers are planning to apply digital twin technology to support predictive maintenance, end-of-life recycling, and refurbishment services. The Horizon Europe framework-funded project includes partners working on light electric vehicles (LEVs) like Renault, Squad Mobility, Toyota Motor Europe, and Tux Mobility.
In one such experiment, University of Michigan students won the solar car race with Astrum
Squad Mobility focusses on passenger models and Tux Mobility focusses on cargo models. The company will further develop and demonstrate L6 and L7 designs as a part of the GIANTS platform. It would receive support for various components like drivetrain, solar PV, software, and batteries. Moreover, R&D support will be provided by the universities and research institutes in the consortium.
Source: Lightweight mobility with vehicle-integrated photovoltaics
