Toyota tests Prius plug-in hybrid with solar cells



Toyota apparently plans to develop a solar charging system for electric vehicles. Corresponding prototypes based on the Prius plug-in hybrid with integrated solar panels are being tested.

In cooperation with the research and development organization Nedo and the battery manufacturer Sharp, Toyota is testing solar panels for plug-in hybrid vehicles. These were installed on the roof, bonnet, tailgate and other parts of Sharp's Prius Plug-in Hybrid Solar Panel. With a conversion efficiency of over 34 percent, the Prius solar system is expected to provide a nominal output of around 860 watts. Compared to the already available Prius Solar with solar cells on the roof, this should represent 4.8 times the amount of energy.

The constant charge, which should be possible during parking and driving, results in an improved range and lower fuel consumption. Toyota will test the vehicles from the end of July 2019 under various conditions, including in Toyota City and Tokyo. The data obtained from the tests are intended to provide information on the amount of power produced by the solar battery module and the amount at which the traction battery is being charged, and to support the development of a solar charging system for vehicles.

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