The solar cells generate energy that can be used for driving or stored in the high-voltage battery
A leading car manufacturer, Mercedes-Benz, is developing a groundbreaking type of paint capable of generating electricity. Engineers at the company believe their innovative solar paint could transform the future of electric vehicles.
The new photovoltaic (PV) coating will feature advanced solar modules applied to the car’s body like a wafer-thin paste. At just 5 micrometers thick—thinner than a human hair—the paint can cover up to 11 square meters. Under optimal conditions, Mercedes claims the paint could generate enough energy to power a car for up to 7,456 miles (12,000 kilometers) annually.
Versatile Photovoltaic Surface
The photovoltaic surface can be applied to any substrate, supported by a nanoparticle-based protective layer that allows 94% of solar energy to pass through. Weighing just 50 grams per square meter, the coating is designed to cover all exterior vehicle surfaces, regardless of shape or angle, according to PV Magazine.
Mercedes-Benz highlights that these solar cells have a high efficiency of 20%. The energy they produce can either power the vehicle directly or charge its high-voltage battery. The system remains active even when the car is turned off, continuing to generate energy. This breakthrough could significantly increase electric range and reduce charging stops in the future.
Performance and Environmental Benefits
Energy production depends on factors such as sunlight intensity, shading, and location. For instance, in Stuttgart, Germany, where the average driver covers 32 miles daily, solar energy could cover 62% of this distance. In sunny Los Angeles, drivers could potentially cover 100% of their daily trips using solar energy, with excess energy feeding back into the home grid via bidirectional charging.
This efficient solar paint is free of rare earth elements and silicon, relying instead on non-toxic, widely available raw materials. It is recyclable, cost-effective to produce, and far cheaper than traditional solar modules. Mercedes-Benz’s research team is working to ensure the paint can be applied to all vehicle surfaces, regardless of shape or angle.
“Innovative strength has always been a core driver for Mercedes-Benz. For nearly 140 years, our brand has been at the forefront of automotive progress with pioneering technologies,” said Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management at Mercedes-Benz Group AG.
