Mission Efficiency: Volkswagen's record-breaking electric car
Solar panels on the roof and tailgate
Avoiding excessive weight gain is one of the first challenges any electric vehicle must overcome, although there are strategies to recover some of the energy consumed. One such strategy involves regenerative braking systems, which utilize an electromechanical setup that enhances energy recovery while simultaneously improving stability. Notably, the EU has verified that this system does not compromise safety in any way. The latest feature touted by the engineers is not entirely new, yet it also contributes to efficiency. It consists of a series of small solar panels installed on the glass roof and the tailgate. With an output of 370W, the system powers the vehicle's onboard electrical components and--depending on the season, region, and weather conditions--can extend the real-world driving range by up to 30 kilometers per day.
VOLKSWAGEN
Mission Efficiency: Volkswagen's record-breaking electric car
