Fraunhofer ISE and the European research project SolarMoves are promoting the integration of solar cells into vehicles in Central and Southern Europe to reduce strain on the power grid and decarbonize the transportation sector. Companies like Sono Motors and Lightyear are exploring the production of solar-powered vehicles, which could generate up to 55-80% of their energy needs through Vehicle Integrated Photovoltaics. Additionally, integrating solar panels on delivery vans, trucks, and trailers can significantly reduce fuel consumption and operating costs, with solar modules extending the range of electric trucks by up to 15 percent. The logistics sector stands to benefit greatly from the implementation of solar panels on vehicles with large roof spaces, as the investment costs could pay for themselves in less than two years for diesel trucks.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/06/13/fraunhofer-wants-solar-cells-on-vehicles-to-help-the-grid/