BMW is working on solar panels to place in the glazed areas of its cars and increase the autonomy of its electric vehicles.
The search for maximum autonomy in electric vehicles is something that car brands are working on. Whether through aerodynamic designs, more efficient batteries or other solutions, it is intended that electric car recharges become more kilometers or faster.
In this sense, according to what CarBuzz tells us, BMW is working on the placement of solar panels on some of their vehicles which, among other functions, could be used to recharge their batteries.
The increase in autonomy, the main purpose
This is a BMW patent that has been registered with the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA) detailing a new method for placing solar panels on the exterior windows of a car, which promises greater efficiency. of generation and one huge reduction in light intrusion into the vehicle.
It is not a revolutionary idea as such, since in the 90s several high-end manufacturers already experimented with the use of solar panels, normally mounted on the roof of the vehicle, to power the ventilation systems of cars.
In BMW’s proposal, these new solar panels will be able to cover the sunroof, front and rear windshields and side windows with the aim of generating much more electricity than previous systems could generate.
we are talking about some very thin solar modules They are applied directly to the glass. They have a very long useful life, but are less efficient than conventional photovoltaic cells when it comes to generating electricity.
This is the definitive version of the Sion, the first solar car for the masses
To alleviate this, there will be areas where they are used more densely, which will make them more effective in capturing energy. Thus, we are talking about more “transparent” areas, such as the front windshield, and areas where a thicker coating will be applied, which will be able to reduce light transmission between 50 and 80 percent (which will protect the occupants from outside light) and will make the solar module coatings work much more efficiently.