Solar cars recognized by the EU as a sustainable energy source

Solar cars, i.e. cars that can charge themselves by means of solar panels installed in or on the car body, receive recognition that is not reserved for a regular battery-electric car. That makes sense, because such a ‘normal’ EV has to be charged. This partly also applies to a solar car, but thanks to its solar cells, such a model can also ‘charge’ itself.

The recognition is reportedly largely due to the efforts of the Dutch MEPs Bart Groothuis (VVD), Tom Berendsen (CDA) and Mohammed Chahim (PvdA). The VVD delegation in the European Parliament calls the move a ‘boost for the future of the Dutch car industry’. Not just like that, because with Lightyear, the Netherlands has one of the most promising companies in the field of solar cars. Groothuis: “I am very pleased that this important change has been adopted by the European Parliament. It is very good news for the Dutch car industry and for our future earning capacity.” Berendsen hints even more clearly to the Helmond-based Lightyear: “To get things done in Europe you have to work together. Nice to see that we as Dutch MEPs are also succeeding in this. This is good for Brabant, for the Netherlands, but also of strategic value for Europe.”

The fact that solar cars are now included in the European Renewable Energy Directive should also encourage the car industry to become more involved with this technology. In addition to the Dutch Lightyear, there is another promising player in this field: Sono Motors. Unlike Lightyear, this German company has an extremely practical and affordable solar car at home, although Lightyear wants to come up with something similar after the expensive ‘0’.