Clemson University students develop solar EV that generates excess energy

A team of 16 automotive engineering master's students from Clemson University has developed the Deep Orange 17, a solar-powered electric vehicle prototype designed to generate more energy than it consumes during typical urban commutes. Also known as Luminetta, the two-seat coupé features over 1,700 photovoltaic cells integrated into its bodywork, allowing it to generate electricity both while parked and in motion.

Developed in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE and supported by BMW's research and development team, the vehicle emphasizes efficiency through extreme lightweight construction and aerodynamics. Weighing only 550 kilograms, the car utilizes a chassis composed of structural steel, aluminum, carbon fiber, and 3D-printed metal components. Its exterior design was inspired by the boxfish to minimize drag.

Simulations conducted for locations including Greenville, Frankfurt, Madrid, and Mumbai suggest that for a 20-kilometer daily commute, the solar energy produced could provide an average of 50 kilometers of additional range. However, researchers noted that actual energy generation is highly dependent on weather, temperature, and solar radiation intensity.