Stella Terra, a pioneering solar-powered SUV designed by students at Eindhoven University of Technology, presents a solution to electric vehicle charging challenges in areas with scarce charging infrastructure. With solar panels integrated into its design to charge the electric battery, this vehicle can travel long distances solely powered by the sun. This innovation aims to bridge connectivity in remote areas with less developed roads and energy grids, also potentially aiding emergency and delivery services. The vehicle's performance was recently tested in Morocco, covering over 1,000 kilometers across diverse terrains, exhibiting a promising range of 710 kilometers on roads and around 550 kilometers off-road under sunny conditions. Stella Terra, weighing 25% less than the average mid-sized SUV, exemplifies an eco-friendly, self-sustaining transportation alternative that can adapt to various landscapes. Although the concept of solar-powered vehicles isn't new, transforming such innovative prototypes into mass-produced models remains a challenge. The journey of Stella Terra not only represents a stride towards sustainable automotive solutions but also serves as an inspiration for the automotive industry to accelerate transitions to more sustainable vehicle designs.
Photo Credit: Jakob Rosen
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