Audi has confirmed it is working with Hanergy subsidiary Alta Devices to incorporate solar roofs into its new electric vehicles (EVs).
The partners hope to generate solar energy to increase the range of Audi E-Tron EV models.
The solar roofs will use Alta Devices’ high-efficiency thin-film solar cells embedded into a section of panoramic glass. Ultimately, solar cells will cover the entire roof surface of the vehicle, supplying electricity to air-conditioning and seat heaters.
Audi says this additional energy will directly impact on the distance its EVs can travel between charges.
“The range of electric cars plays a decisive role for our customers,” said Audi Manager for Procurement, Dr Bernd Martens.
“We plan to install innovative solar technology in our electric cars that will extend their range and is also sustainable.”
At a later stage, the company says, solar energy could directly charge the traction battery of Audi electric vehicles.
Solar roofs utilise record-breaking thin-film technology
Alta Devices currently holds the world solar efficiency record of 31.6 per cent for its dual junction thin-film solar cell.
The company has perfected the mass production of thin-film gallium arsenide (GaAs) solar cells. Unlike crystalline silicon cells used in rooftop PV systems, GaAs cells are highly adaptable to specialised electronic purposes.
Until now, Alta Devices’ biggest markets have been in the aerospace sphere, in particular, powering unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The partnership with Audi is Alta Devices’ first collaboration with a high-end auto brand.
Dr Jian Ding, CEO of Alta Devices, said solar technology has the potential to transform the EV market.
“By combining Alta’s continuing breakthroughs in solar technology with Audi’s drive toward the future of the auto industry, we will define the solar car of the future,” he said.
First prototype EV due by end of 2017
Audi said the first E-Tron EVs equipped with solar roofs could roll off the lots by the end of the year.
Global demand for electric vehicles is heating up following emissions scandals and consumer preference for cleaner transport.
In response, Audi has slashed costs by $12 billion to pay for its transition to sustainable electric cars.
The company has plans to bring three battery-powered EV models to market by 2020.
