Lightyear

We’re at Intertraffic Amsterdam this week from 10–13 March.

Curious how solar technology can support the future of mobility and infrastructure? Visit us at booth 03.00 B and explore how Lightyear’s solar innovations can help power vehicles with clean energy.

Our team is there to share more about our technology and answer your questions.

See you at Intertraffic.

The best charging is no charging.

With vehicle-integrated solar, the car generates energy whenever it’s exposed to daylight, whether it’s parked or driving. That energy supports daily use and reduces how often you need to plug in.

In real-world conditions, for a mid size SUV, this translated into a reduction from 23 charging moments per year to just 8. Overall testing shows a 35–65% decrease in charging frequency, depending on driving patterns, climate and usage.

For drivers, that simply means fewer charging moments and more comfort. Charging becomes less of a routine and more of a backup, while the car quietly takes care of part of its own energy needs.

What does solar charging actually deliver? ☀️

Under clear, sunny conditions, the integrated solar system can generate up to 23 km of additional driving range per day, directly from sunlight.

Energy is generated while the vehicle is parked or driving, supporting
vehicle systems and improving overall efficiency in everyday use.

Solar only works if it truly becomes part of the car. ☀️

The demonstration vehicle features 3.8 m² of custom solar panels, integrated across the hood, roof and tailgate.

Designed to meet automotive standards, the system shows that solar can be embedded into vehicle design, without compromising aesthetics, safety or performance.

What began in 2023 as a forward-looking concept has evolved into a demonstration vehicle delivering measurable results under real-world conditions.

Together with Nissan, we explored how vehicle-integrated solar could move beyond theory and into everyday mobility.
This project marks an important step from innovation to ex*****on.

As Shunsuke Shigemoto, Vice President ePowertrain & Internal Combustion Engine Powertrain, Technology Research & Advanced Engineering & Chief Powertrain Engineer at Nissan AMIEO, explains:
“The solar-powered Ariya concept embodies Nissan’s belief that innovation and sustainability must move forward hand-in-hand. By exploring how vehicles can generate their own renewable energy, we are opening the door to new opportunities for customers.”

We’re excited to finally share a major milestone for Lightyear ☀️

Vehicle-integrated solar charging is now demonstrated in a vehicle, delivering real-world benefits — including up to 23 km of additional driving range generated directly from solar energy under clear conditions.

Developed in collaboration with Nissan, this project shows how solar technology is moving beyond concept and closer to production reality.

Learn more via the link in bio.

Last Thursday, we had the pleasure of welcoming a distinguished group of leaders and students from Guanghua School of Management, Peking University, as part of their collaborative program with Rotterdam School of Management.

During their visit, we showcased our cutting-edge R&D and production facilities, and offered an exclusive look at the innovative Lightyear Zero development vehicle: a shining example of the exciting future of solar-powered mobility.

A big thank you to everyone who made this inspiring visit possible!

We’re getting ready for !

From 9–12 September, you can explore the world of solar innovation with Lightyear and see how our technology is shaping the future of clean mobility.

Join us at Hall B2, Stand C20 to chat with our team.

Performance never looked this good.
Lightyear’s solar panels are not only functional, they’re also designed to blend seamlessly into the vehicle’s body. The result? A sleek, fully integrated, all-black look.

3D double-curved panels ensure optimal coverage without compromising aesthetics, a bold new standard for clean mobility design.

Function meets form, powered by the sun.

What does it take to integrate solar technology seamlessly into vehicle design? 

In this series of posts we uncover the design principles for creating solar-optimised vehicles that balance form and function. This week — off-grid performance.

1️⃣   Long declining rooflines provide ample solar area for optimal energy production.
2️⃣  Fully optimising solar energy can result in up to 95% energy independence.
3️⃣  Solar technology enables vehicles to truly operate off the grid, reducing dependence on external charging.