Nissan is continually developing practical solutions to further extend the driving range of its electric vehicles. A testament to this is the Sakura EV prototype, wherein Nissan has integrated it with an onboard solar power generation system.
Nissan calls the technology the Ao-Solar Extender, a solar panel system designed to reduce reliance on the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. As a solar panel, it generates energy from the sun, which in turn charges the Sakura EV. The team developing the system shared that, on an annual basis, the Ao-Solar Extender can generate enough solar electricity to power up to 3,000 km of driving.
To put things into perspective, the standard Nissan Sakura is equipped with a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery that offers a range of up to 180 km (based on WLTC Japan cycle). The battery can also be used as a mobile power source during emergencies and provide a day’s worth of electricity to a home.
The Ao-Solar Extender is a roof-mounted solar power system. The Japanese automaker said that the fixed roof-mounted panel can capture solar energy even when the vehicle is in motion. When stationary and parked, an additional panel extends outward on top of the front windshield. This increases the solar panel surface area and power generation potential to around 500 Watts.
The expanded panel also creates shade and helps block sunlight from entering through the windshield, reducing cabin temperature. Nissan added that the system has been designed to minimize drag and integrate with the Sakura’s overall appearance.
Nissan intends to reduce EV users’ reliance on charging infrastructure with the Ao-Solar Extender tech. The Japanese car brand explained that an analysis of driving data from Sakura owners shows that many primarily travel short distances for errands and school runs, suggesting that solar-generated power could nearly eliminate the need for grid-based charging for a significant portion of owners.
Nissan will debut the Nissan Sakura EV prototype equipped with Ao-Solar Extender at the upcoming 2025 Japan Mobility Show, which will kick off on October 29.
